Chandigarh, Nov 4 (IANS) Bringing a sense of relief to her family and the wider community, the six-year-old girl admitted to the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh on October 28 following a brutal physical assault by a schoolmate in Haryana’s Panchkula, was discharged on Wednesday after receiving comprehensive medical care.
The girl, who is a child with special needs, was allegedly brutally assaulted by a Class III student inside a school in Sector 20 in Panchkula, who banged her head against the wall repeatedly and then assaulted her with a brick even as she lay unconscious on the floor of a classroom, bleeding heavily.
The Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini-led Haryana government had said it would bear the child’s entire treatment cost and conduct a comprehensive safety audit of schools across the state.
However, demonstrating its commitment to compassionate and equitable healthcare, the PGIMER extended treatment to the child without any financial burden on her family.
The institute also bore the expenses of her private room facilities, ensuring that the family could focus entirely on her recovery during this difficult period.
Prof Vivek Lal, Director, PGIMER, who had personally visited the child during her hospitalisation to enquire about her health, expressed happiness and relief over her successful discharge.
He said, “The safe discharge of the little girl is a moment of great relief and happiness for all of us at the PGIMER. The unfortunate incident had deeply moved us, and our foremost priority was to ensure that she received the best possible medical care in an environment of compassion, comfort and reassurance.
“I sincerely appreciate the dedication and sensitivity demonstrated by our doctors, nursing professionals and supporting staff throughout her treatment and recovery.”
Emphasising the institute’s commitment to accessible healthcare, Prof Lal added, “At the PGIMER, we firmly believe that access to quality healthcare should never be determined by a person’s financial circumstances.
“We were committed to extending every possible support to the child and her family during this challenging time. We wish her good health, happiness and a bright future ahead.”
The child’s treatment involved coordinated efforts under the guidance of Prof J.K. Mahajan, Head, Department of Paediatric Surgery, with the Trauma Centre playing a significant role in facilitating her care.
Dr Raman Sharma, in-charge, Trauma Centre, coordinated the trauma-related aspects of her management, while Prof Ashok Kumar, Medical Superintendent, ensured the necessary institutional support and coordination throughout her hospitalisation.
Sharing his views, Prof Mahajan said, “Treating a young child following such an unfortunate incident requires not only clinical expertise but also sensitivity, patience and a compassionate approach.
“Our team remained committed to providing the required medical attention while ensuring her comfort and well-being throughout her hospital stay. We are pleased that she has been discharged and sincerely hope she returns to her normal routine soon. The coordinated efforts of various teams at the PGIMER ensured that her care remained our top priority.”
–IANS
vg/rad
