Gujarat couple held for harassing woman doctor with virus taunts

Surat, Apr 6 () A couple was arrested on Monday inSurat in Gujarat for allegedly harassing a woman doctor withtaunts over the coronavirus outbreak, police said.The couple, identified as Chetan and Bhavna Mehta,would ask the doctor, who works in a civil hospital, if shewas infected with the virus and hurl abuses at her, said anofficial quoting the application given by the victim.

The couple and the doctor live on the same floor,police said.

"Since the victim was not ready to file an FIR, Adajanpolice took her application and arrested Chetan and BhavnaMehta under section 151 of CrPC. They will be produced infront of an executive magistrate who will grant them bailafter obtaining an assurance of good behaviour," said SuratAssistant Commissioner of Police PL Chaudhari.

The doctor made two videos on the harassment andshared it on social media on Sunday, and in one, Chetan Mehta,can be seen hurling abuses at the doctor and banging her doorin anger.

In another video, the doctor said she was tormentedwith coronavirus taunts.

"Two days ago, Chetan Mehta asked me if I am infectedwith the virus, as I work at the civil hospital. Then onSunday, her wife falsely claimed my dog attacked her. Chetanabused me in front of others," she said.

"I was targetted just because I am a doctor at thecivil hospital where coronavirus patients are treated," shesaid in her video.

Surat police commissioner R B Brahmbhatt said strictaction will be taken if healthcare workers are harassed forserving coronavirus patients. COR PJT PDBNM BNM