SMS Hospital issues no photos diktat, minister withdraws it

JAIPUR:The CIRCULAR ISSUED ON FEB 12 STATES THAT THE MEDIA TAKE PHOTOS OF SENSITIVE PLACES AND NEGATIVE NEWS IS PUBLISHED WITHOUT ANY AUTHORISED INFORMATION

Sawai Man Singh Hospital has banned journalists from taking photos and videos of the health facility without permission.

However, after getting information about the order issued by medical superintendent banning entry of media in hospital premises, health minister Kali Charan Saraf immediately directed the superintendent to withdraw the order.

Saraf said the media is the fourth pillar of democracy and has its special importance.

The circular issued on February 12 states that photographers of print and electronic media take photos of sensitive places, such as intensive care units and operation theatres, and negative news is published without any authorised information.

Congress MLA Govind Singh Dotasara also raised the issue of banning media at SMS hospital in the house on Wednesday.

“Such news affects the image of the hospital adversely,” said the circular signed by medical superintendent of the hospital, attached to SMS Medical College.

“In case any person is seen taking photos, inform the security guards and apprise the hospital administration.”

When contacted, medical superintendent Dr DS Meena said, “We have a media cell and if any photography/videography is to be done, then they should contact Dr SS Yadav, the in-charge of the cell, and take necessary permission.”

He alleged on Wednesday that many media persons malign the hospital image.

SMS Medical College principal and controller Dr US Agarwal earlier said, “It has come to my knowledge about banning photography/videography by media persons at the hospital. I will get the order reviewed and take necessary action.”