Mob Attack Caught on Camera
New Delhi: In a shocking incident, a resident doctor from the surgery department at Lady Hardinge Medical College (LHMC) was allegedly assaulted by a mob of the patient’s relatives late on August 12. A video of the attack has gone viral, showing miscreants cornering the doctor while security guards attempted to intervene. The footage sparked widespread outrage across the medical community.
Incident Triggered by Patient Collapse
The violence erupted when a road accident victim, brought to LHMC’s casualty department, collapsed while being taken for an X-ray. The patient’s attendant allegedly called in a mob, which entered the hospital and manhandled the resident doctor. Several security guards were also injured, but the surgery resident bore the brunt of the assault.
Doctors Forced to Hide
According to RDA President Dr. Sarada Prasad Sahoo, the situation became so dangerous that doctors removed their white coats to avoid being targeted and locked themselves in a room for safety. “Every resident doctor and CMO was terrified of the mob,” he said, adding that no FIR has been registered despite government assurances.
Indefinite Strike Announced
The LHMC Resident Doctors’ Association (RDA) has called for an indefinite strike, suspending all elective services until their demands are met. Emergency services will continue. The demands include:
- Immediate institutional FIR against all culprits.
- More bouncers/security in sensitive areas like casualty and emergency departments.
- Controlled access at entry points and limited attendants per patient.
National Support from Doctors’ Bodies
The Federation of Resident Doctors’ Association (FORDA) condemned the incident, calling it “unacceptable” and urging stronger security measures and immediate police action.
Growing Concern Over Attacks on Medical Staff
The RDA highlighted the rising number of assaults on doctors, with many cases pending without action. They have demanded a strike law to protect healthcare professionals and ensure hospital safety.
