GUWAHATI: A senior eye specialist in Silchar has been booked for allegedly slapping a two-year-old child during treatment at a private clinic, sparking public outrage and a police probe. The clinic has, however, said the doctor's action has been misunderstood.
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The incident took place on Monday evening at Choudhury Eye Clinic in the heart of Silchar town. The child’s mother alleged that during the consultation, Dr Haimanti Choudhury, an ophthalmologist, suddenly slapped her toddler multiple times while examining his eye.
“We went to the clinic because my son had something in his eye,” the mother later said in a video that went viral on social media. “The doctor said it was an iron particle and began checking, but suddenly she started slapping him—seven to eight times. My son was already in pain. After the slaps, he nearly fainted.”
Family members who were present reacted strongly to the incident, leading to tension at the clinic. Police from Silchar Sadar Police Station were called to the spot. The doctor was detained for questioning and her statement was recorded.
Cachar Superintendent of Police Numal Mahatta confirmed that complaints were filed from both the doctor and the family. “A case has been registered under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita. We are investigating from all angles,” he said.
Meanwhile, the clinic’s management defended the doctor’s actions. Dr HK Choudhury, a senior member of the hospital, said the child’s condition was critical and the procedure was complicated. “We suggested using anaesthesia, but the family was hesitant. Dr Haimanti tried another method, which involves a quick motion to remove the foreign object. Her actions were misunderstood,” he said.