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In a distressing display of violence and disregard for healthcare workers, a group of junior doctors and nurses at Sagar Dutta Hospital in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district initiated a 'cease work' agitation. This protest followed a disturbing assault on hospital staff by the family members of a deceased patient. The incident, which occurred near Kolkata on Friday, resulted in injuries to three junior doctors, three nurses, and other healthcare workers.
The confrontation stemmed from accusations of negligence leveled by the family of a middle-aged woman who died during treatment. The woman had been admitted with acute breathing difficulties. Despite efforts to administer oxygen, her condition worsened, and she ultimately passed away. However, the family insisted that proper medical care was not provided, leading to their aggressive actions. Reports indicate that approximately 15 to 20 relatives of the patient forcibly entered the female medicine ward and attacked the staff on duty, despite the presence of police personnel at the hospital.
The nurses involved in the protest highlighted the recurring issue of inadequate security measures, stating they had repeatedly requested better protection in the outpatient department and hospital wards. Their concerns, however, have been consistently ignored by the hospital administration. The protesting junior doctors and nurses are adamant about improved security arrangements within the hospital and have declared their intention to continue their 'cease work' protest until their demands are met.
This incident underscores a deeply concerning pattern of violence against healthcare professionals in India. The attack at Sagar Dutta Hospital echoes a similar incident at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in August 2023, where a colleague was horrifically raped and murdered. The ongoing wave of assaults has instilled a sense of fear and insecurity among healthcare workers, forcing them to question their own safety while carrying out their duties. The state administration has been criticized for its failure to adequately address the safety concerns of healthcare workers and provide them with the necessary protection.
The hospital administration has filed a complaint with Kamarhati Police Station, and the Barrackpore Police Commissionerate is investigating the incident. A senior police official confirmed the deployment of police patrols at the hospital's main gate to enhance security. However, the effectiveness of this measure remains to be seen. This incident underscores the urgent need for comprehensive and sustainable solutions to safeguard healthcare workers and ensure a safe environment for patients and medical professionals alike. The state government must take proactive measures to address the root causes of violence against healthcare workers, including improved security, better communication, and addressing grievances in a timely and constructive manner.
Source: Bengal doctors go on protest after attack on medical staff at state-run government hospital