Shiv Sena Corporator Accused of Assaulting Doctors at KDMC Hospital, Staff Strike
Doctors and nurses at the Kalyan Dombivli Municipal Corporation’s Shastrinagar Hospital in Dombivli have alleged that they were assaulted on Tuesday by Shiv Sena corporator Ramesh Mhatre and several of his supporters. The incident, which stemmed from a dispute over the referral of a pregnant patient, led to a strike by hospital staff.
According to hospital sources, a pregnant woman was admitted to the civic hospital for delivery. After examining her, doctors informed the family that the newborn might require treatment in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). However, all NICU beds in the hospital were occupied. The family was, therefore, advised that the patient could be shifted to another hospital if specialised neonatal care became necessary.
It was during this discussion that the alleged assault occurred. Hospital staff reported that Mr. Mhatre and his supporters entered the ward and confronted the doctors, leading to a physical altercation. Several employees were left shaken, with some breaking down in tears. The administration has been asked to provide security and take action against the corporator.
The strike by doctors and nurses has affected patient care at the hospital, with outpatient services and elective procedures suspended. Emergency services are being maintained with minimal staff. The municipal corporation has initiated an inquiry into the incident and assured that necessary action will be taken.
This incident highlights the challenges faced by healthcare workers in India, who often work under stressful conditions and face threats from patients' relatives and local political figures. The Indian Medical Association has condemned the assault and called for stricter laws to protect medical professionals.
