Violence at Hospitals: Punjab Doctors decry lack of security measures
Violence Against Doctors
Chandigarh: The Punjab Civil Medical Services Association (PCMSA) has raised concerns as the state is witnessing a renewed wave of violence against healthcare professionals at government hospitals, triggering serious concern over the state’s inability to implement promised security measures for healthcare workers.
Despite repeated assurances, no concrete action has followed, leaving doctors and medical staff dangerously vulnerable, especially during night shifts. In the past week alone, three horrific incidents of violence have been reported across various public healthcare facilities, putting the lives of on-duty doctors and staff at grave risk.
Punjab Civil Medical Services Association (PCMSA) acknowledged the prompt intervention of Hon’ble Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh, whose actions led to swift police and administrative response. FIRs were registered under stringent sections, and the culprits were apprehended. The association also appreciated the proactive stance the government has taken over the past year in taking action “after” such unfortunate incidents, sending a strong message to society that violence against medical personnel will not be tolerated and will result in strict legal consequences.
The association further stated, “Even if technical hurdles arise in securing this expenditure from the Finance Department, it is feasible for the Health Department to allocate these funds from its existing budget. It is the government’s primary responsibility to safeguard the lives of medical professionals on duty. In the face of the latest violent episodes, the healthcare fraternity and the government may not be able to forgive themselves if a life is lost due to the absence of adequate protection, especially when steps could have been taken to prevent such a tragedy.”
The press release signed by Dr. Akhil Sarin, President, PCMA, also stated, “It is quite understandable that in such a fearful and unsafe work environment, a doctor on duty can never be able to work at his/her optimal capacity. PCMSA strongly believes that the current government has repeatedly showcased its commitment to bolster the public healthcare of the state and certainly has the necessary political will to resolve all issues that practically serve as impediments in the eventual realisation of the government's goal of bringing “Sehat Kranti” in the State of Punjab.” In this regard, PCMSA has requested the Principal Secretary, Department of Health and Family Welfare, Punjab, to hold an urgent meeting to discuss and zero in on the modality and time frame for the due implementation of a concrete security framework for the public healthcare facilities of the state.
Medical Dialogues had reported that in a shocking turn of events that unfolded at Dera Bassi Civil Hospital in Punjab's Mohali, a violent clash between two groups left at least five people injured a few days ago. On April 12, a violent altercation between rival groups erupted at the District Hospital in Gurdaspur, during which the attackers allegedly manhandled the on-duty doctor, created panic among patients, and forced other doctors and hospital staff to flee for safety, as the rival groups reportedly damaged hospital property, particularly the doctor's cabin.
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