Doctors Strike Over Hospital Assault: Services Halted

Routine medical services and outpatient consultations at Kalyan-Dombivli's civic-run hospitals were suspended on Tuesday. This action was taken by doctors, nurses, and paramedical staff protesting an alleged assault by a Shiv Sena corporator and his supporters. The incident reportedly stemmed from a perceived delay in treatment for a pregnant patient the previous night.

Emergency services at the hospitals were not impacted by the strike. Protesters allege that authorities are attempting to file a case solely against the patient's relatives, despite CCTV footage appearing to show the corporator, Ramesh Mhatre, assaulting staff. They vow to continue their agitation until all accused face strict consequences.

The Indian Medical Association's Kalyan and Dombivli units have threatened to suspend services if action is not taken by Wednesday. A 33-year-old pregnant woman was admitted to Shastrinagar Hospital, where doctors decided on a C-section. Due to NICU capacity issues, they were arranging an alternative bed when the alleged confrontation occurred.

Following the incident, the patient was transferred to another civic facility, where the C-section was successfully performed, and the newborn was admitted to its NICU. Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation Commissioner Abhinav Goel has assured that security will be strengthened at all KDMC hospitals and urged the protesting staff to resume services.