Chandigarh. A six-year-old girl, who was admitted to Chandigarh’s Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) on October 28 after she was brutally beaten by a schoolmate in Haryana’s Panchkula, was discharged from the hospital on Wednesday. Her family and the people around have heaved a sigh of relief as the girl got better treatment.
A girl with special needs was brutally assaulted by a Class 3 student in a school located in Sector 20, Panchkula. The student hit the girl’s head against the wall several times and even attacked her with a brick when she was lying unconscious on the classroom floor, covered in blood.
The Haryana government, led by Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, had said it would bear the entire cost of the girl’s treatment and would conduct a comprehensive audit of security in schools across the state. However, showing its commitment towards sensitive and equitable healthcare, PGIMER treated the girl without putting any financial burden on the family. The institute also covered the expenses for her private room, so that the family could focus solely on the girl’s recovery during this difficult time.
Director of PGIMER Prof. Vivek Lal, who had visited the girl during her hospitalization to inquire about her well-being, expressed happiness and relief over her successful discharge.
He said, “The safe discharge of this child is a matter of great relief and happiness for all of us. This unfortunate incident has shaken us to our core. Our first priority was to ensure that she receives the best medical care in an environment of complete compassion, comfort and trust.”
“I deeply appreciate the dedication and sensitivity shown by our doctors, nursing staff and other staff during the child’s treatment and recovery process.”
Emphasizing his commitment to make healthcare accessible to all, Prof. “At PGIMER, we strongly believe that access to good healthcare should not depend on an individual’s economic status,” Lal said.
“We are committed to providing all possible support to the child and her family during this difficult time. We wish her good health, happiness and a bright future.”
Professor J.K., head of the pediatric surgery department, was involved in the treatment of the girl. A coordinated effort was made under the guidance of Mahajan, with the trauma center playing a vital role in his care. Dr Raman Sharma, in-charge of the Trauma Centre, coordinated the trauma related aspects of his treatment, while Medical Superintendent Professor Ashok Kumar ensured the necessary institutional support and coordination during his hospitalization.
“Treating a small child after such an unfortunate incident requires not only clinical expertise but also sensitivity, patience and an empathetic approach,” said Professor Mahajan.
“Our team remained committed to providing her the necessary medical care as well as taking complete care of her comfort and well-being during her stay in the hospital. We are glad that she has been discharged from the hospital and we hope she returns to her normal routine soon. The coordinated efforts of various teams at PGIMER ensured that her care remains our top priority.”