Family Alleges Medical Negligence; Medical Associations Demand Immediate Arrest of Attackers
Tensions erupted at the District Headquarters Hospital (DHH) in Malkangiri, Odisha, after a doctor was allegedly assaulted by relatives and villagers of a pregnant woman who died during treatment for a suspected snakebite. The incident has triggered outrage among the medical fraternity, with doctors’ associations demanding strict action against those involved in the attack.
According to hospital sources, the 29-year-old pregnant woman, a resident of MV-43 village under Malkangiri block, was admitted to the district hospital late on Tuesday night after reportedly suffering a snakebite. She was treated by a physician and administered anti-snake venom (ASV) along with other medications before being discharged.
However, her condition allegedly worsened after returning home, prompting family members to rush her back to the hospital. Despite medical efforts, she died during treatment, sparking anger among relatives and villagers who accused the attending doctor of negligence.
Family members claimed that the woman had repeatedly informed doctors that she had been bitten by a snake, but no visible fang marks were initially detected. They alleged that treatment was delayed and that anti-snake venom was administered only later, after which her condition deteriorated further.
As emotions ran high following the death, the crowd allegedly turned violent and physically assaulted the doctor within the hospital premises. Personnel from Malkangiri Town Police Station intervened and rescued the physician from the mob.
Responding to the allegations, Malkangiri Chief District Medical Officer (CDMO) Nihar Ranjan Prahraj denied claims of negligence and stated that the patient had received appropriate medical treatment. He added that an investigation would be conducted to ascertain the facts surrounding the incident and the allegations raised by the family.
The assault has drawn sharp condemnation from medical bodies across the state. The Odisha Medical Services Association (OMSA) demanded the immediate arrest of those responsible and warned that doctors across the district would suspend outpatient department (OPD) services, except emergency care, if prompt action is not taken. The association further cautioned that a statewide protest could be launched if the accused are not arrested within 48 hours.
The incident also attracted reactions from national medical organizations. Dr. Mohammad Momin Khan, Vice President of AIMSA, condemned the attack and urged the Odisha Government and law enforcement authorities to ensure the safety and security of healthcare professionals.
AIMSA National President Dr. Jitendra Singh described the assault as deeply disturbing and emphasized that violence against healthcare workers cannot be tolerated under any circumstances. He called upon the Odisha Government, Odisha Police, and constitutional authorities to take swift legal action and strengthen protection mechanisms for doctors working in public healthcare institutions.
Meanwhile, Malkangiri Town Police Inspector-in-Charge Regan Kindo confirmed that a case has been registered based on the complaint filed by the doctor. Superintendent of Police Vinod Patil assured that legal action would be initiated against all individuals found responsible for the assault.
The incident once again highlights the growing concern over violence against healthcare professionals in India and raises questions about the safety of doctors working in government hospitals, particularly in emergency and high-risk medical situations.
