Kolkata: The Association of Health Service Doctors (AHSD), West Bengal, has written to the police commissioner against cardiologist PK Hazra, alleging that the doctor has posted a photo of the RG Kar rape-murder victim on social media. Calling such a move unethical, illegal and politically motivated, the doctor's organisation has urged the police commissioner to inquire into the social media activity of the doctor and initiate criminal proceedings under relevant sections.
Hazra, who is a senior interventional cardiologist, has been in controversy over his ‘Jai Shree Ram' discount scheme. A few days ago, the doctor posted on social media that patients coming to his private clinic will get a Rs 500 discount if they chant ‘Jai Shree Ram'. Many in the medical fraternity termed this move against medical and professional ethics. In fact, IMA Bengal asked Hazra to explain this move.
Shortly after this controversial post, the doctor shared a photograph of two women with a text saying that the ‘JSR scheme was dedicated to this girl (without naming anyone)'. One of the women in the photograph purportedly is that of the mother of the RG Kar rape/murder victim, who is the BJP candidate from Panihati constituency this time.
"We demand an urgent probe into the social media activity and the operational ethics of Dr Hazra's private practice and take lawful measures under relevant sections of the BNS for the unauthorised and unethical use of the victim's image for commercial/political gain," said the complaint by Utpal Bandyopadhyay, general secretary, ASHD.
"I have only mentioned that my scheme is dedicated to this girl and have urged people to vote for the BJP candidate," said Hazra.
Hazra maintained that, as a staunch BJP supporter, he had the right to campaign and encourage people to vote for BJP. While his actions are being widely criticised, some have lauded the doctor openly on social media.