Mob attacks doctor at Malkangiri Hospital after death of pregnant woman

Malkangiri: Tension gripped the District Headquarters Hospital (DHH) in Malkangiri on Wednesday after a doctor was allegedly assaulted by relatives and villagers of a pregnant woman who died during treatment for a suspected snakebite, with the family alleging medical negligence.

According to reports, the 29-year-old woman, a resident of MV-43 village under Malkangiri block, was admitted to the district hospital late Tuesday night after reportedly suffering a snakebite. She was administered anti-snake venom (ASV) and other treatment, and later left for home. She was treated by a 30-year-old physician posted at the hospital.

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However, her condition reportedly worsened, and she was brought back to the hospital, where she died during treatment. Her death triggered anger among family members and villagers, who accused the doctor of negligence and allegedly attacked him inside the hospital premises.

Speaking to TNIE, family members alleged that despite the woman repeatedly claiming that she was bitten by a snake, the doctor initially did not find any visible fang mark and only administered medication to control vomiting. They further claimed that the anti-snake venom (ASV) was administered later, after which her condition deteriorated, and she died.  

As tensions escalated and the crowd allegedly turned violent, personnel from Malkangiri Town Police Station rushed to the hospital and rescued the doctor from the mob.

Malkangiri Chief District Medical Officer Nihar Ranjan Prahraj denied the allegation. As per PTI, he said, “We are sad over the death, but she was given proper treatment. An investigation will be conducted to find out how far the allegations of the deceased’s family are true.”

As news of the assault spread, the Odisha Medical Services Association (OMSA) condemned the incident and demanded strict action against the attackers. The association warned that doctors across the district would suspend OPD services, excluding emergency care, if the accused were not arrested soon, and said it would launch a statewide protest if no action is taken within 48 hours.

In a post on X, Dr. Mohammad Momin Khan, Vice President of AIMSA, also condemned the assault and urged the Odisha government and police to take immediate action and ensure protection for doctors.

AIMSA National President Dr. Jitendra Singh described the incident as “shocking” and said violence against healthcare workers is unacceptable. He urged the Chief Minister’s Office, Odisha Police, and the Governor of Odisha to take swift action and ensure strict protection for doctors.

Meanwhile, Malkangiri Town Police Inspector-in-Charge Regan Kindo confirmed that a case had been registered based on the complaint lodged by the doctor. Superintendent of Police Vinod Patil also assured that appropriate legal action would be taken against anyone found responsible for attacking the doctor.

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