Shocking Incident at Indira Gandhi Medical College
Viral Video Sparks Outrage
A disturbing video has surfaced on social media, leading to public outrage as it allegedly shows a junior resident doctor from the Pulmonary Medicine department at Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC) in Shimla physically assaulting a patient during an argument. The footage depicts the doctor repeatedly punching the patient in the face.
Immediate Suspension of Doctor
In response to the incident, the doctor, who is a contractual employee, has been suspended effective immediately. The alleged assault resulted in a nose injury to the patient, who is currently receiving treatment. While the specific cause of the confrontation remains unclear, reports indicate that the altercation began when the patient requested the doctor to communicate more respectfully. The patient claimed that the doctor addressed him disrespectfully, leading to the altercation.
Doctor’s Denial and Claims
The accused doctor, who is from Paonta Sahib in Sirmour district, has refuted the allegations, asserting that the patient instigated the confrontation. Speaking to the Indian Express, the doctor stated, “I did not intend to assault the patient. The patient behaved rudely with me first. I will put my side before the police.”
Protests Erupt Following Incident
The incident has incited protests, with the patient’s relatives demanding that the doctor be handed over to them. As tensions escalated, Dr. Rahul Rao, Medical Superintendent of IGMC, announced the formation of a three-member committee to investigate the matter, following directives from Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu.
Police Involvement and FIR Registration
The patient’s family has lodged a police complaint against the doctor, resulting in the registration of an FIR under applicable sections of the law. The video, recorded by a bystander in the ward, shows the doctor assaulting the patient, who was lying on a bed. The patient attempted to defend himself while two others tried to intervene.
Details from the Patient’s Perspective
Singh, a resident of Kupvi in Shimla, sustained a nose injury during the incident. He stated that he had visited the hospital for a bronchoscopy and began feeling short of breath afterward. He claimed that his request for respectful communication led to the doctor’s aggressive response. Singh expressed dissatisfaction with just a suspension, insisting that the doctor should face termination.
Government and Hospital Response
Health Minister Dr. (Col) Dhani Ram Shandil responded promptly to the incident, directing health officials to investigate and provide details. He confirmed that the doctor’s services have been immediately withdrawn and that further disciplinary actions may follow based on the inquiry’s results. He emphasized that the doctor’s behavior is unacceptable for someone in the medical profession and highlighted the need for measures to prevent similar incidents.
Ongoing Investigation
Hospital authorities have established an inquiry committee led by the head of the Chest and TB department, with the Deputy Medical Superintendent and Nursing Superintendent also involved. Following the submission of a preliminary report, the doctor’s suspension was ordered until further notice. Furthermore, medical tests of both the doctor and the patient’s attendant have been conducted.
Inquiry into Staff Involvement
When asked about the involvement of a second doctor, who was seen attempting to restrain the patient during the assault, Shandil confirmed that an inquiry is underway to determine the roles of all medical staff present at the time of the incident.