Kin Forced to Pay, Clean Ambulance for Injured Man in Katni; Staff Terminated

Jabalpur: Relatives of a critically injured road accident victim in Katni were allegedly forced to pay money and clean a 108 ambulance before he was shifted for further treatment, even as his condition remained serious.

The incident surfaced after a video went viral showing a woman relative washing the ambulance while a staff member stood nearby. The patient, 32-year-old Rahul Barman, suffered severe injuries in an accident near Karela village and was brought to Katni district hospital. After initial treatment, doctors referred him to Jabalpur as his condition remained critical.

According to officials, the alleged misconduct occurred within the hospital premises when the family was arranging for the patient’s transfer. The video has since triggered outrage, prompting authorities to initiate action.

Hospital officials said a notice has been issued to the ambulance driver and the in-charge, asking them to respond within a week. They added that appropriate action would be taken based on the reply.

The agency operating the ambulance services has also terminated the two employees involved.

Authorities said an inquiry is underway to ascertain the circumstances under which the incident took place.