Intern assaulted at GMC Bettiah: Doctors' Association demands immediate security

Bettiah: Following a clash between intern doctors and the family of a 56-year-old patient at Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), Bettiah during which the patient’s son allegedly slapped an intern doctor, accusing him of negligence, a state doctors' association has expressed serious concerns over the deteriorating safety conditions for junior doctors, interns, and medical students at the hospital.

Medical Dialogues had earlier reported that a video of the incident went viral, showing a physical altercation, which reportedly started over the removal of an oxygen mask.

Also read- GMC Bettiah: Viral video shows scuffle between intern doctors and patient attendants

The incident took place on January 21, 2026, when the family members of the patient accused an intern doctor of medical negligence after he removed the woman’s oxygen mask, checked her pulse, and declared her dead. In response, the deceased's son, in rage, slapped the intern.

In a letter written to the Principal of GMCH Bettiah, the District Magistrate, and the Superintendent of Police, the Democratic Medical Association (DMA), Bihar, stated that some unidentified persons were also seen near the college campus, creating an atmosphere of fear and insecurity within the campus.

The association is deeply concerned that adequate security measures have not yet been ensured. It added that doctors and students now feel unsafe within their own institution, severely affecting both healthcare delivery and academic activities.

Therefore, the association has demanded immediate and adequate police security at GMC Bettiah, a fair investigation and take strict legal action against those involved in threats and intimidation and a safe and secure working environment for healthcare workers.

Medical Dialogues had previously reported that a third-year postgraduate resident doctor in the paediatric department at ESI Hospital, Basaidarapur, Delhi, was allegedly verbally abused, physically assaulted, and almost strangled by a patient’s attendants while on duty.

Also read- ESI Hospital Basaidarapur: 3rd year MD Paediatric medico attacked by attendants of patient