Agartala, August 3:
Tension broke out in the emergency ward of GB Pant Hospital early Saturday after two on-duty doctors were allegedly assaulted by the sons of a patient who had been admitted following the consumption of poison mixed with alcohol.
The patient, identified as Bimal Sarkar, was brought to the hospital around 3 a.m. and immediately shifted to the emergency ward, where necessary medical care was provided. On duty at the time were Dr. Litan Das, Dr. Avik Deb, and Dr. Santanu Das.
According to hospital sources, Dr. Litan Das attended to the patient and initiated treatment. After some time, the patient’s family members called Dr. Das again. When he responded, a heated argument broke out, during which the patient’s sons, Tapan Sarkar and Papan Sarkar, allegedly abused and physically assaulted him.
The commotion drew the attention of Dr. Avik Deb, who rushed to intervene. However, he too became a victim of verbal abuse and physical harassment at the hands of the patient’s relatives. The chaos disrupted emergency services and created panic among staff and patients present at the time.
Strongly condemning the attack, Dr. Sishendu Dhar, Head of the Emergency Department, said, “The doctors at AGMC’s emergency ward have been working tirelessly to provide the best possible healthcare. Despite their efforts, they are subjected to violence and hooliganism.”
Dr. Dhar also criticized the inadequate response of the police and private security. “Neither the police officials nor the private security personnel took the matter seriously. Even after over 12 hours, no FIR had been lodged against the attackers,” he said.
The incident has renewed calls for stronger security arrangements and strict legal action to ensure the safety of healthcare professionals.
