In a disturbing case from Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, a pharmacist has been suspended for allegedly manipulating an autopsy report in exchange for a bribe. The incident highlights the potential for corruption within the medical system and raises serious questions about the integrity of forensic investigations.

Madhur Arya, a pharmacist posted at a Community Health Center (CHC) in Bahjoi, Sambhal district, is accused of taking a bribe of ₹50,000 (approximately $600 USD) to alter the autopsy report of a 17-year-old girl. The girl was allegedly murdered by her father and brother, who disapproved of her relationship with a local man. According to reports, the accused initially strangled the girl and then staged the scene to look like a suicide by hanging.

To shield the perpetrators, Arya allegedly changed the cause of death in the autopsy report from "strangulation" to "hanging." This alteration could have significantly impacted the investigation, potentially leading authorities to believe the death was a suicide rather than a homicide.

The crime took place on May 27th at Haimadpur village under Rajpura police station in Sambhal district. The girl's father, Chandrakesh, and brother, Dharmendra, along with their relative Jai Prakash, have been arrested along with the pharmacist and a computer operator, Yash Sharma, who worked as a contract worker at the post-mortem house and is accused of being an accomplice.

Superintendent of Police (SP) Krishan Kumar Bishnoi has identified the case as an instance of "honor killing." The accused had also attempted to frame four other individuals, including the girl's lover, to further mislead the police.

Additional SP Anukriti Sharma stated that authorities are examining the pharmacist's communications with other CHC staff, including the doctor in charge. This investigation aims to determine the extent of the involvement and whether others were complicit in the crime.

Chief Medical Officer Dr. Tarun Pathak confirmed that both Arya and Sharma have been jailed under the Prevention of Corruption Act. Furthermore, a departmental inquiry has been initiated against the pharmacist, with further actions pending the outcome of the investigation report.

This incident underscores the critical importance of ethical conduct and accountability within the medical field. The manipulation of an autopsy report not only obstructs justice but also undermines the trust placed in healthcare professionals. It also brings into focus the vulnerability of the system, especially in cases involving marginalized communities, where family honor can tragically lead to violence. The swift action taken by the authorities is commendable, but a thorough review of protocols and increased vigilance are necessary to prevent similar incidents in the future.