Shimla Resident Doctors Initiate Indefinite Strike Over Security Concerns

Strike Details and Background

More than 2,000 resident doctors in Shimla commenced an indefinite strike at 9:30 am on December 27, 2025. This protest stems from concerns over alleged security lapses at the Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC) and the recent termination of a senior resident doctor in the Department of Pulmonary Medicine. During the strike, routine services, outpatient departments (OPDs), and elective surgeries have been suspended; however, emergency services remain operational.

The Resident Doctors’ Association (RDA) at IGMC Shimla initiated this strike following a previous mass leave taken in conjunction with the Himachal Medical Officers Association (HMOA). They have warned of an indefinite strike if their demands are not met by the designated deadline.

Incident Leading to the Strike

The unrest was triggered by an incident on December 22, where a resident doctor was caught on video physically assaulting a patient. The footage showed the doctor punching the patient multiple times, which sparked public outrage and intensified scrutiny of the state government’s healthcare reform efforts.

In response to the incident, the Shimla Police filed a First Information Report (FIR) at the Shimla Sadar police station. The FIR was registered under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023. Subsequently, the state government terminated the doctor’s employment after receiving reports from the IGMC administration and an inquiry committee, which determined that both the doctor and the patient shared responsibility for the altercation.

Demands and Reactions from the Resident Doctors

The RDA labeled the termination of the doctor as “unfair” and called for its immediate revocation. They expressed concerns that the doctor was punished without a proper opportunity to defend himself. The association noted that no action had been taken against the patient, who allegedly instigated the violence.

The doctor involved claimed the patient became aggressive, verbally abused him, and physically attacked him first. He further described the patient as non-cooperative, using derogatory language, and making death threats during the confrontation.

Multiple medical associations, including the RDA and HMOA, have come out in support of the affected doctors. Dr. Sohil Sharma, president of the RDA, emphasized the need for dialogue with government officials, stating that they planned to meet the Chief Minister on December 26. He announced a one-day mass casual leave on December 26, warning that if their demands were not addressed, a strike would commence the following day.

Official Communications and Security Concerns

In a letter to the Principal of IGMC, the RDA reported on their meeting with the Chief Minister, where they discussed the incident and received assurances that an investigation would be launched. The letter also highlighted ongoing security issues at IGMC, which have led to mob intimidation and media trials within the hospital.

The RDA outlined specific demands, including:
– Immediate revocation of the termination order against the affected doctor.
– Registration of an FIR and initiation of legal proceedings concerning incidents of mob intimidation and vandalism at IGMC.
– Legal action against individuals who issued threats to the doctor.
– A thorough review of security measures and the implementation of CCTV coverage to prevent future incidents.

Support from Medical Associations

Dr. Dhruv Chauhan, National Spokesperson of the Indian Medical Association Junior Doctors Network (IMA-JDN), called for solidarity among medical professionals in light of the situation. He emphasized that unity is crucial to protect professional integrity.

The Federation of All India Medical Association (FAIMA) also condemned the termination of the doctor, labeling it as unjust and lacking a proper investigation. FAIMA has demanded a transparent inquiry to clarify the events leading to the confrontation and has urged the government to enhance safety measures in hospitals nationwide.

In conclusion, the situation at IGMC Shimla remains tense as resident doctors stand firm on their demands for justice and improved security, highlighting the need for systemic changes in the healthcare environment.