BHUBANESWAR — The medical community in Odisha is in a state of high tension following a violent assault on Ramesh Panukupati, the President of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Bhubaneswar Nursing Association. Panukupati was left in a critical condition after being targeted by a group of unidentified miscreants on the night of Friday, April 10, 2026.
Details of the Violent Assault
The incident occurred near the Patrapada bus stop in Bhubaneswar. Eyewitness reports indicate that approximately six individuals intercepted Panukupati and launched a brutal, life-threatening attack.
- Nature of Injuries: The victim sustained severe trauma, including a fractured nose and potential internal brain injuries.
- Emergency Care: He was immediately rushed to AIIMS Bhubaneswar, where he is currently undergoing intensive treatment in the Critical Care Unit (CCU).
Staff Protest and Demands for Justice
The attack has triggered widespread anger among healthcare professionals at the institute. In response, hundreds of nursing staff and association members organized a massive candlelight rally and a sit-in protest within the AIIMS campus to show solidarity with their leader.
- Black Badge Protest: On Sunday, staff members were seen wearing black badges to work as a mark of protest against the delay in police action.
- Security Concerns: Protesting staff have criticized the hospital administration for being “casual” about the safety of its employees and have set a 48-hour deadline for the police to apprehend the suspects.
Police Investigation
A formal FIR has been lodged at the Khandagiri Police Station. While the motive behind the assault remains unclear, the police have launched a manhunt and are conducting technical surveillance to identify the attackers. Local authorities are also examining CCTV footage from the Patrapada area to trace the assailants’ movements.
The Nursing Association has warned that if no significant progress is made in the investigation, they may escalate their protest, potentially affecting hospital services.
