By ARUN PRATAP SINGH
DEHRADUN, 17 May: Tanzim Akram, a doctor, posted at AIIMS, Rishikesh has found himself at the centre of a major controversy after being accused of posting objectionable content on his social media account nd distributing sweets, following the terrorist attack on unarmed tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, on April 22. The incident, which had left the entire nation in shock and mourning, was allegedly celebrated by Tanzim Akram. He has now been booked by the police under relevant sections of BNS.
As per the complaint lodged by Rajendra Pandey, a resident of Tapovan Muni ki Reti, Akram is alleged to have distributed sweets among members of his community within the AIIMS Rishikesh campus on April 23. When questioned about the reason for the celebration, he reportedly stated that the sweets were for Ramadan and Eid, although neither of the festivals was being observed on that day. The complaint further mentions that Akram had shared objectionable content on his social media accounts, allegedly against the nation.
Senior Superintendent of Police Ajai Singh has confirmed that an FIR has been registered against the doctor. The complainant has demanded that a case of sedition be registered against the accused doctor. SSP Ajai Singh informed that the police have taken the matter seriously and an investigation is underway.
Meanwhile, it has come to light that Tanzim Akram has been absent from his duties since the incident came to notice. The AIIMS administration has so far not issued any official statement regarding the matter. However, sources within the hospital have revealed that there is considerable resentment among the staff and senior officials regarding the doctor’s alleged actions.
The incident has also sparked protests by Hindu nationalist organisations, who have staged demonstrations outside the AIIMS Rishikesh campus demanding the immediate arrest of Akram. These organisations have further called for the doctor’s dismissal from service. The controversy intensified after Akram allegedly posted objectionable content on his social media handles, which angered several groups and led to widespread protests in Rishikesh and nearby areas.
The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) also submitted a formal complaint at Rishikesh Kotwali, demanding strict action against Dr Akram. Following the inquiry and after examining screenshots of the alleged posts submitted by the complainants, the police registered a case against Akram on May 16 under BNS sections 196(1)a, 196(1)b, and 197(1)a. These sections relate to offences against public tranquillity, promoting enmity between different groups, and acts prejudicial to national integration.
SSP Ajai Singh reiterated the seriousness of the allegations, stating that the case has been registered without delay and investigations are ongoing. The AIIMS administration has stated that they are fully cooperating with the police investigation. The matter remains under active investigation, and further action will be taken as per the findings.
