NAVEEN SHIVAN EXTRADITED FROM INDIA OVER BLACKBURN SEXUAL ASSAULT CASE

In a high-profile case that has spanned continents, Dr. Naveen Shivan, a medical professional originally practicing in Blackburn, has been sentenced in absentia for a serious sexual assault that took place at the Blackburn Royal Infirmary. The incident dates back to August 2005, when Shivan was working within the ENT unit of the hospital. The victim, a 16-year-old girl, was admitted to the hospital suffering from acute tonsillitis. According to court proceedings, the girl was reportedly awakened in the early hours of the morning to find the doctor touching her abdomen, an act that escalated into a sexual assault under the pretense of a medical examination.

Details of the assault emerged during the trial, revealing that nurses became aware of the distressing situation when the teenage patient rang her bedside alarm, prompting intervention. It was alleged that Shivan exploited his position of trust to carry out the assault, claiming it was part of a medical procedure. The court heard that the attack was deliberate and targeted a vulnerable young woman, leading to a strong judicial response.

Despite the gravity of the case, Shivan did not appear in court for his trial, and his absence was noted when Judge Edward Slinger sentenced him to two years in prison. His legal team argued that the 37-year-old doctor, who had obtained a temporary medical license in the UK after qualifying in India, was not present because he was a 'broken man' suffering from ill health. However, Judge Slinger dismissed these claims, emphasizing the severity of the crime and stating that the defendant's actions warranted immediate custodial punishment.

Following his sentencing, authorities announced that extradition proceedings would be initiated. The police and the Crown Prosecution Service confirmed that efforts are underway to bring Shivan back from India, where he had fled after the incident. Once extradited, he will face the consequences of his actions in the UK, including being placed on the sex offenders register for a period of ten years. This measure aims to monitor and restrict his activities post-conviction.

Furthermore, the conviction will have significant professional repercussions. Shivan's current medical license, granted temporarily in the UK, will be revoked, preventing him from practicing medicine here. Additionally, it is anticipated that he will face exclusion from practicing medicine in India, further limiting his career prospects. The case has garnered considerable attention, highlighting issues of trust and safety within medical institutions and the importance of accountability for healthcare professionals.