Doctors in Kullu demand legal action over Dhalpur hospital crowd incident

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Kullu, July 1

The doctors and healthcare workers at the Regional Hospital in Dhalpur on Wednesday staged a protest demanding legal action against those who allegedly mobilised a crowd at the hospital during recent unrest, warning that the situation could have escalated into violence against medical personnel.

The Himachal Pradesh Medical Officers Association organised the protest following the suspension of gynecologist Dr Anu. Demonstrators submitted a memorandum to the state government through the Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADM) and the Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP), seeking legal action against those responsible for assembling the crowd and demanding stronger security arrangements for hospital staff.

Dr Rajendra Kohli, president of the Himachal Pradesh Medical Officers Association, Kullu, said doctors and healthcare workers had been deeply affected by the events of the past two days and by the criticism circulating on social media.

“The image of doctors and healthcare workers is being unfairly tarnished through social media. Despite being subjected to online harassment, doctors and hospital staff continue to serve patients with dedication,” Dr Kohli said.

He alleged that thousands of people had gathered at the hospital, creating a situation that could have turned violent.

“The crowd could have assaulted doctors or other healthcare workers. The entire hospital staff remained frightened for two days and was concerned about their safety. The administration and police should take legal action against those responsible for gathering the crowd so that healthcare professionals can perform their duties without fear,” he added.

Representing the Indian Medical Association (IMA), Dr Mahesh Kapoor said doctors devote their lives to serving society but are often unfairly targeted.

“What happened at Dhalpur Hospital was completely unacceptable. If such incidents continue, it will become increasingly difficult for doctors to perform their duties, and that is a matter of serious concern,” he said.

Staff nurse Amita Paul said hospital personnel continued to perform their duties despite an excessive workload. She noted that nine deliveries were conducted at the hospital on the day Manju Devi died.

“There is already a heavy workload on staff nurses, yet we continue to care for every patient. The behavior of the crowd over the past two days has left many employees traumatised. The government should reduce the burden on nursing staff and strengthen security arrangements so that such incidents do not recur,” Paul said.

The protesting doctors and healthcare workers urged the administration to ensure adequate security at government hospitals and take prompt legal action against those responsible for the recent disturbance.