Protests Erupt at PDU Medical College Following Assault on Resident Doctor
Incident Details and Arrest of the Accused
New Delhi: Ongoing protests by resident doctors at PDU Medical College and Hospital have emerged in response to the recent assault of a 28-year-old resident doctor from the Neurosurgery Department at Rajkot Civil Hospital. The primary suspect in this case has been apprehended. In addition, the hospital administration has issued a written commitment to enhance security measures and ensure the safety of healthcare workers.
According to Medic Helpline, the resident doctor was verbally abused and physically attacked by an attendant of an accident victim while on duty in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). The incident reportedly escalated after the attendant expressed anger over the return of an unused blood bottle, leading to verbal abuse directed at nursing staff. When the doctor intervened to restore order, the attendant allegedly assaulted him, resulting in facial injuries.
Doctors’ Response and Demands
Following the assault, resident doctors, represented by the Junior Doctors’ Association (JDA) at PDU Medical College and Hospital, initiated a protest on December 31 at 6 PM. They boycotted outpatient department (OPD) services and postponed surgeries, demanding the immediate arrest of the accused, suspension of the security personnel and staff present during the incident, and the appointment of a new security agency.
The Federation of Resident Doctors Association (FORDA) publicly supported the protesting doctors. In a letter to the Medical Superintendent of PDU Government Hospital & Medical College, FORDA expressed concern about the assault occurring in the presence of security personnel who failed to act, highlighting a significant lapse in safety protocols for healthcare workers.
FORDA’s Stance on Healthcare Worker Safety
FORDA emphasized the crucial role of resident doctors within teaching hospitals, noting that they spend considerable time in wards and emergency areas, thereby facing heightened risks of aggression. The association warned that if security issues are not urgently addressed, it could lead to an unsafe environment for doctors, nurses, and patients, potentially forcing resident doctors to withdraw from non-emergency services.
The letter further called for immediate registration of appropriate charges against the perpetrators, an inquiry into the negligence of on-duty security staff, and the implementation of robust security measures in high-risk areas, accompanied by a strict zero-tolerance policy against any form of abuse toward healthcare personnel. FORDA also expressed its support for peaceful, symbolic protests, such as wearing black badges or ribbons, while maintaining emergency and critical care services.
Authorities’ Response and Future Actions
Following the assurances from authorities, FORDA welcomed the prompt and decisive actions taken by the State and College Authorities in Rajkot. “The arrest of the primary accused and the firm written commitment to strengthen hospital security demonstrate a strong dedication to safety. We appreciate the efforts of the police and administration and commend the unity among doctors,” stated the association in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
In a discussion with Medical Dialogues, Dr. Meet Ghonia, National General Secretary of FORDA, condemned the violent attack on the resident doctor, which led to serious injuries. He affirmed that violence against dedicated healthcare professionals is intolerable.
Dr. Ghonia praised the swift actions taken by the State Government, college authorities, and local police administration, noting, “The accused has been arrested, and the hospital administration has provided a written assurance regarding the enhancement of hospital security and the safety of healthcare workers.”
He further remarked, “Resident doctors operate under significant pressure and long hours, and their safety is paramount. Such incidents jeopardize not only the doctors but also patient care and the healthcare system as a whole. FORDA stands firmly with the injured doctor and his family, and we will continue to monitor the situation to ensure that all assurances are transformed into tangible actions. A strict zero-tolerance policy against violence toward healthcare workers must be enforced nationwide.”