Anaesthetist Attacked While Heading to Work, Hospital Staff Demand Immediate Arrest of Accused
A woman doctor was allegedly assaulted by two unidentified men near Dera Bassi Sub-Divisional Hospital in Punjab, triggering protests by hospital staff and the suspension of outpatient department (OPD) services. Doctors have accused the police of failing to take prompt action despite a formal complaint being lodged by the victim.
Doctor Allegedly Attacked Near Hospital Premises
According to hospital authorities, the incident took place on Friday morning when an anaesthetist was on her way to duty. The doctor had parked her vehicle near the Forest Department office and was walking towards the hospital when two unidentified men allegedly approached her.
Reports suggest the attackers questioned the doctor about her profession. After learning that she was an anaesthetist, the men allegedly began pushing, slapping, and physically assaulting her. The accused reportedly became angry over the referral of a patient to another hospital.
Fearing for her safety, the doctor managed to reach her car, locked herself inside, and avoided further harm. The attackers fled the scene shortly afterward.
Doctors Allege Delay in Police Action
Following the incident, the doctor informed her colleagues and submitted a written complaint to the Dera Bassi Police. However, hospital staff alleged that more than 24 hours passed without any significant action against the accused or additional security arrangements for medical personnel.
Doctors expressed concern over the safety of healthcare workers, stating that incidents of misbehaviour and violence against hospital staff have become increasingly common.
Hospital Staff Suspend OPD Services
In protest against the alleged police inaction, doctors and hospital employees suspended routine OPD services and staged a demonstration. The protesting staff warned that services would remain suspended until the accused are identified, arrested, and strict legal action is initiated.
They also demanded enhanced security measures within and around the hospital premises to ensure the safety of doctors and healthcare workers.
Emergency Services Continue Uninterrupted
Despite the protest, hospital authorities ensured that emergency and critical care services continued without disruption. Patients requiring urgent medical attention continued to receive treatment, minimizing the impact on emergency healthcare delivery.
Senior Medical Officer Dr. Dharmendra Singh confirmed that the matter had been reported to the police and that further action was being pursued.
FIR Registered, CCTV Footage Under Examination
Dera Bassi Police Station SHO Inspector Sumit Mour stated that an FIR has been registered against the two unidentified men. Police officials are currently reviewing CCTV footage from the area to identify and trace the accused.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have assured that appropriate action will be taken once the suspects are identified.
Rising Concern Over Violence Against Healthcare Workers
The alleged assault has once again highlighted concerns regarding the safety of healthcare professionals in India. Medical associations and doctors’ groups have repeatedly called for stronger security measures and stricter enforcement of laws to protect healthcare workers from violence while performing their duties.
