ChatGPT said I had pellet injuries, Safdarjung Hospital backed it, says scribe with 30 wounds
A 28-year-old journalist with Outlook, among those injured in the July 20 protest, said knew something was off when he saw an officer deployed on
A 28-year-old journalist with Outlook, among those injured in the July 20 protest, said knew something was off when he saw an officer deployed on law and order duty at the Statesman House near Jantar Mantar fire his weapon. “There was a lot of crowd, and I saw an officer lift a gun. People started running around and dispersing. I was conscious, but there was a lot of pain,” said the journalist who did not wish to be identified.
Later that day, he got a tetanus shot but realised the severity of the injuries only the next day. “I had some idea that the injuries were caused by pellets. I took photos and consulted ChatGPT, which suggested that the injuries were likely caused by pellets. Then I went to the hospital, and the doctors confirmed it,” he told The Hindu. His medical report from Safdarjung Hospital notes punched-out skin defects in his elbow and arm that are “suggestive of pellet entrance wounds”.
There are at least 30 such injury marks on his back, elbow and arm. Doctors told him that removing pellets is not necessary as none appeared to be lodged near any vital organs. But he’s getting a second opinion. Meanwhile, two other victims of pellet injuries continue to undergo treatment. After The Hindu reported on the use of pellet guns by the Rapid Action Force (RAF) on protesters on July 20, a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) official said that they are “verifying media reports” on the issue.
The RAF is the CRPF’s specialised anti-riot unit. A doctor familiar with the cases said the severity of the injury depends on where the pellet is lodged. The two other victims — Shaikh Irshad Mansoori, 25, and Sahil Lochab, 19 — have undergone surgeries.
The BriefWire