By Dr Fozia Lone

I am writing to express my deep concerns regarding the recent coverage of Dr Anjum Nazir’s case. I want to bring to your attention the news of two doctors suspended after what has been reported by the media as a, “Botched Surgery” in Sopore: Dr. Anjum Nazir is facing accusations of performing an unnecessary hysterectomy instead of an ENT procedure. The incident, which went viral on social media, has sparked public outrage and calls for a lifetime ban on her private practice. The health department has launched an investigation into the matter. As an expert in the law of tort, having authored two books on the subject that delve extensively into medical negligence, I find this case particularly disturbing.

The reporting presents Dr Nazir in a light that suggests malpractice and negligence, overlooking critical context essential for an accurate understanding of the situation. This misrepresents the facts and threatens to undermine our community’s healthcare dialogue. Given that the case is still under investigation, it is especially troubling to see allegations of wrongdoing without robust evidence.

Irresponsible journalism often lacks accountability and fails to uphold factual accuracy, sensationalising events without providing essential context. The 2011 ruling by the House of Lords in Reynolds v. Times Newspapers Ltd underscores the obligation of journalists to report fairly and thoroughly, recognising the importance of presenting both sides of a story—especially in matters of public interest.

Additionally, India’s Chief Justice Dipak Misra has noted that journalists should not fabricate narratives as if they are “sitting in some pulpit,” stressing press freedom must be exercised with responsibility. While the Supreme Court endorses media freedoms, it simultaneously emphasises the need for integrity and a........

© Kashmir Observer