Basirhat Hospital vandalised; Doctor, 3 staffers assaulted after death of patient

Kolkata: As resident doctors in Bengal are demanding adequate security at medical colleges and hospitals in light of the brutal rape and murder of a PG trainee, a shocking incident of vandalism occurred at Basirhat Super Speciality Hospital where four staff members including a doctor were allegedly attacked following the death of a patient.  

Accusing the doctors and hospital staff of gross negligence, the relatives of the deceased patient allegedly vandalised the hospital damaging computers, furniture, and other hospital property in a fit of rage after losing their patient during treatment at the hospital.

It is reported that they attacked the doctors, nurses, and other hospital personnel and assaulted them which resulted in serious injuries. Additionally, three visitors also sustained harm as a result of the purported vandalism that occurred during the incident.

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As per The Telegraph news report, the relative claimed that they had sought medical assistance from the hospital staff for the patient but the treatment was delayed which they believe led to the death of their patient. 

The incident took place on Friday afternoon after a 35-year-old patient who was a resident of Ramchandrapur-Narkelberia village in Baduria was admitted to the hospital on Thursday night with a complaint of chest pain. However, he unfortunately passed away the next day.   

This led to the anger of the relatives who stormed the hospital accompanied by some villagers. They entered the emergency sections and destroyed the equipment including valuable items from the hospital. The incident caused panic among other patients and their relatives who were present at the scene.

After the incident, the hospital authorities called the police immediately. As the situation went out of control, a large contingent of Rapid Action Force (RAF) and combat force personnel were pressed into action.

After bringing the situation under control, the hospital authorities filed a complaint at the police station and a case was registered in this regard. 

Meanwhile, one of the relatives involved with the incident claimed "We requested for a visit of a doctor multiple times for better management of the patient's condition, but no one bothered to attend to him as his condition deteriorated."

"We understand and support the doctors' grievances. But at the same time, they are neglecting their duties," a relative of the patient said.

Refuting the negligence allegations, the Superintendent of the hospital Ranjan Roy told The Telegraph, "There was no negligence and the family members were apprised about his poor condition. But they didn't realise it and blamed us for death. They attacked our staff created panic among other patients and their relatives and vandalised our establishment.".

Following the attack, the police personnel enhanced the security at the hospital and an investigating officer in this regard said, "The offenders have been identified and will be arrested soon." 

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