Doctor Forced to Drink, Then Killed by Colleagues
In a deeply disturbing case that has sent ripples through the medical fraternity in Rajasthan, Dr. Vaibhav Chawla, a young medical officer posted as the in-charge of Koyla Community Health Centre (CHC) in Baran district, was allegedly murdered by two of his colleagues. The incident, initially believed to be a case of suicide, was later confirmed as a pre-planned murder following police investigation.
Doctor’s Body Found in Parvati River
On May 18, 2025, the lifeless body of Dr. Chawla was found floating in the Parvati River near Kotdi Sunda village. Police also discovered his abandoned motorcycle, clothes, and mobile phone on the riverbank. Though it first appeared to be a suicide, further investigation revealed foul play.
CCTV Footage Sparks Suspicion
CCTV footage from the area showed Dr. Chawla being taken on a motorcycle by two hospital staff members — Ashok Kumar Verma, a nursing officer, and Shankarlal Bairwa, a health supervisor. This led police to re-examine the case as a potential homicide.
Workplace Dispute Behind Murder
According to police officials, the motive behind the crime was a workplace conflict. Ashok Kumar Verma reportedly held a grudge against Dr. Chawla after receiving several show-cause notices for his repeated absenteeism and misconduct. Dr. Chawla had formally marked Ashok absent and had confronted him multiple times over forged attendance records.
Ashok allegedly conspired with Shankarlal Bairwa to “teach the doctor a lesson.”
How the Crime Was Committed
On May 17, after finishing duty, Ashok invited Dr. Chawla for refreshments, citing the extreme heat. He convinced the doctor to stop at the river. The three men later went to Kotdi Sunda village, where Ashok had purchased beer, water bottles, and cigarettes. Dr. Chawla was made to drink excessive alcohol, and once he was heavily intoxicated, both accused drowned him in the Parvati River.
After committing the crime, the accused reportedly walked back to the health centre around 7 PM, pretending that nothing had happened.
Accused Arrested After Confession
Following a detailed investigation led by DySP Omendra Singh Shekhawat, the two accused were arrested and confessed to the murder during questioning. They are currently in police custody, and further investigation is underway.
Family, Doctors’ Associations Demand Justice
Dr. Chawla’s family, convinced from the beginning that his death was not a suicide, staged a protest at the office of the Inspector General of Police in Kota. They demanded strict action against the accused and a CBI inquiry into the case.
The United Doctors Front (UDF), Rajasthan, has condemned the incident and offered full support to the bereaved family. The UDF has demanded:
- A high-level and impartial investigation
- Financial assistance to the doctor’s family
- Government job on compassionate grounds for one family member
- Better security measures at all health centres across the state
The UDF has also met with State Health Minister Gajendra Singh Khinvsar to discuss the matter.
Conclusion
This tragic incident highlights serious concerns around safety and discipline within healthcare institutions. The medical community is calling for systemic reforms to ensure that such brutal acts are never repeated, and that healthcare professionals are provided a safe and secure working environment.
Source: Inputs from various media Sources
Priya Bairagi
Reviewed by Dr Aarti Nehra (MBBS, MMST)
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
