Pune:
The Pune chapter of the Indian Medical Association (IMA) has strongly condemned the incident of vandalism at Sahyadri Super Speciality Hospital in Hadapsar, stating that violence against healthcare institutions and workers is unacceptable and that proper legal forums exist for grievance redressal.
In a statement, the association emphasized that medical institutions follow established protocols while treating patients and ensure that patients and their relatives are informed about treatment plans and possible outcomes. It noted that critically ill patients, especially those admitted to ICUs, can deteriorate at any moment despite best medical efforts.
“Violence Is Not the Answer”: IMA
Dr Sunil Ingale, President of IMA Pune Chapter, said taking the law into one’s own hands and attacking hospitals or healthcare workers deserves the strongest condemnation.
“Such acts create fear among hospital staff and other patients and adversely affect patient outcomes. After the attack on Sahyadri Hospital, several admitted patients have taken discharge against medical advice,” he said, adding that working under intimidation makes it extremely challenging for healthcare professionals.
Details of the Incident
Explaining the circumstances, Dr Sanjay Patil, National Secretary of the Hospital Board of India, stated that the patient was brought to Sahyadri Hospital with a perforated ulcer and multiple comorbidities. Despite extensive efforts, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), the patient could not be saved.
Following the death, the patient’s relatives allegedly accused doctors of negligence and resorted to stone pelting, vandalism, and destruction of hospital property. Dr Patil stressed the need for heightened vigilance by security personnel and prompt police intervention in such sensitive situations.
Misrepresentation of CPR Procedure
In a press release, IMA Pune condemned the portrayal of CPR as a violent act.
“Describing life-saving CPR as ‘breaking ribs and sitting on the chest to kill the patient’ is deplorable and reflects sheer ignorance. CPR has saved countless lives, and such misinformation may discourage healthcare workers from performing it, endangering society at large,” the association said.
Call for Immediate Legal Action
The association highlighted that similar incidents are being reported frequently, often with police intervention arriving only after the damage is done. It also expressed concern over political interference based on incomplete information, which further escalates tensions.
IMA Pune asserted that, based on preliminary facts, there was no negligence on the part of the doctors, hospital, or staff in this case. It demanded strict and immediate action against the accused under the Maharashtra Medicare Service Persons and Medicare Service Institutions (Prevention of Violence and Damage or Loss to Property) Act, 2010, without any political pressure.
