DUSHANBE, October 19, 2011, Asia-Plus  -- The law enforcement authorities of Khatlon’s Vose district have instituted criminal proceedings against Namozali Sohibov, head of the surgical department at the Vose central district hospital, under the provisions of Article 129 of Tajikistan’s Penal Code – improper discharge of professional duties, or failure to meet standards of care.

The Interior Ministry spokesman Mahmadullo Asadulloyev says criminal proceedings have been instituted against Sohibov following an application by Vose resident Hakim Miraliyev, 51.

“Hakim Miraliyev says his 13-year-old son Davlatsho, who sustained foot injury, died because the physician did not provide timely medical assistance to him,” said the spokesman, “According Hakim Miraliyev, the physician even did not apply iodine to his son’s injury.”

If convicted, Namozali Sohibov could face up to seven years in prison.  Besides, he may be barred from practicing for five years.