Jalandhar, Aug 21 — A city-based nephrologist was shot at on Tuesday evening in a busy Jalandhar market with the medical fraternity demanding justice.
According to the reports, Dr. Rahul Sood, 50, who works at Kidney Hospital and resides in Jalandhar Heights-2, was leaving a grocery store in Urban Estate Phase-2 after buying items for his daughter’s birthday when three youths intercepted him near the parking area.
Police said the assailants attempted to attack him, but Dr. Sood resisted, following which one of them fired at his leg before the trio fled on a motorcycle.
The doctor was rushed to Kidney Hospital for treatment. Deputy Commissioner of Police Manpreet S. Dhillon and ADCP-2 Harinder Pal S. Gill reached the spot soon after the incident.
Police said CCTV footage from the area has been collected and the accused have been identified.
“We should be able to nab the accused shortly,” a senior officer said.
Preliminary investigation suggests the assailants may have attempted to snatch the doctor’s car. Dr. Sood denied receiving any extortion calls or having personal enmity with anyone, police said.
The incident sparked strong reactions on Wednesday. Jalandhar Cantt MLA Pargat Singh said the attack appeared to be an attempt either to kidnap or rob the doctor.
The Indian Medical Association (IMA) district unit also extended solidarity with Dr. Sood. “He is a senior member of our organisation and the attack on him is deeply concerning. All members of the IMA stand with him during this challenging time,” the association said in a statement.
The IMA urged the administration to ensure a swift and impartial probe, calling for enhanced security at hospitals and medical facilities.
“We advocate for creating a safer environment for medical professionals and ensuring justice in cases of violence against them,” the statement read.
Police sources said teams were scanning CCTV footage to trace the attackers’ movements. Based on the motorcycle details, officials believe the accused could be apprehended soon.
