Incident of Violence Against Medical Professionals in Barmer
Assault on Assistant Professor
In a troubling incident reported from Barmer District Hospital, an assistant professor in the gastroenterology department was allegedly assaulted by the attendant of a deceased patient while he was attending to patients in the outpatient department (OPD). The assault resulted in fractures to the doctor’s shoulder and fingers.
Background of the Incident
The altercation occurred on Thursday when the assailant, who was upset over his brother’s death at the hospital, had been protesting outside the facility. The brother had been admitted a few days earlier following serious injuries from a road accident but unfortunately succumbed to his injuries during treatment. Following the death, the deceased’s family staged a protest in front of the mortuary, alleging negligence on the part of the hospital administration.
Details of the Attack
According to a post by a fellow doctor on X, the assailant utilized a stool to strike the physician, inflicting serious injuries. The attacked doctor is currently receiving treatment at the hospital.
Response from Authorities
Dr. Harish Chauhan, the Acting Chief Medical Officer, confirmed that the young man entered the OPD in a fit of rage and assaulted the doctor. Police were notified and arrived promptly after the incident. Manoj Kumar, an officer at Kotwali police station, stated, “Upon receiving information about the incident, a police team arrived at the scene. The accused youth has been identified. Preliminary investigation revealed that the deceased’s family was staging a sit-in at the hospital, and the young man acted out of anger. Legal action will follow once a report is filed.”
Concerns Over Safety of Medical Staff
This incident has raised significant concerns regarding the safety of medical professionals. Doctors at the hospital expressed their frustration, questioning how long they would endure such violence despite their commitment to public health, often at the cost of their own well-being. They pointed out that similar assaults have occurred in the past, yet the administration has not taken substantial measures to ensure their safety.
Dr. Chauhan remarked, “The doctor was attending to a patient when the young man attacked him. We have repeatedly informed the district administration in writing about the need for security, but no specific action has been taken. A case will be filed at the police station regarding this matter.”
Related Incidents
This event comes on the heels of another attack on medical staff at DDU Hospital, highlighting a troubling trend of violence against healthcare providers.