In the aftermath of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, concerns over security preparedness have prompted key medical institutions in the region to issue advisories aimed at enhancing emergency readiness.
However, in a surprising development, one such advisory was withdrawn just a few hours after it was made public.
On Friday evening, the Government Medical College (GMC) in Jammu issued a formal advisory, instructing all hospital staff members to remain on high alert and maintain full preparedness for any emergency that might arise.
The circular, signed by the Medical Superintendent, specifically referenced the prevailing “cross-border tension” in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir as the reason behind the precautionary directive.
The advisory emphasized that all staff, including doctors, nurses, and administrative personnel, should be vigilant and ready to respond swiftly to any unforeseen incidents.
It directed the store officers to ensure that all essential supplies, including emergency medicines, life-saving drugs, and critical medical equipment, were kept in a constant state of readiness for immediate deployment.
Additionally, the advisory instructed staff members to “restrict unnecessary holidays” and maintain their presence within the hospital premises to ensure that manpower shortages do not hamper emergency response efforts.
Highlighting the seriousness of the situation, the advisory also mentioned that a 224/7control room had been established within the hospital.
This control room was tasked with coordinating emergency operations and ensuring seamless communication between departments in the event of any crisis.
However, in a quick turn of events, later the same evening, the GMC Jammu administration issued another order, formally withdrawing the earlier advisory.
The second circular, issued by Dr. Ashutosh Gupta, Principal and Dean of GMC Jammu, stated, “The circular issued by the Medical Superintendent GMCH Jammu… is withdrawn ab initio with immediate effect.”
No detailed reasons for the sudden withdrawal were provided, leading to speculation and confusion among hospital staff and the public alike.
Meanwhile, a similar advisory was also issued by the Government Medical College Baramulla. In its advisory, the administration instructed the heads of all departments to conduct an internal readiness assessment.
The objective was to confirm that all emergency preparedness protocols were being strictly followed. Staff were reminded to review and ensure compliance with the hospital’s established emergency response systems, reinforcing the need for vigilance given the sensitive situation in the region.
The heightened alert comes just days after a horrific terror attack in Baisaran, a popular tourist destination in Pahalgam, South Kashmir.
The attack resulted in the tragic deaths of at least 26 people, most of whom were tourists, and left many others severely injured.
The incident has not only sent shockwaves across the country but has also placed all critical institutions, including hospitals, on a higher state of preparedness amid fears of potential follow-up incidents.
In light of the broader security environment, the initial issuance of advisories indicated a proactive approach by hospital administrations to ensure that healthcare services would not be overwhelmed or caught unprepared in case of further emergencies.
However, the withdrawal of GMC Jammu’s advisory has raised questions about internal communication and coordination among administrative ranks during sensitive times.
Authorities have yet to comment officially on why the GMC Jammu advisory was retracted so swiftly, but the move highlights the delicate balance institutions must maintain between caution and public reassurance in times of crisis.