In a stark protest against escalating security concerns, resident doctors at Guru Teg Bahadur (GTB) Hospital in New Delhi have commenced an indefinite strike after a shocking incident where a 32-year-old patient was fatally shot by a teenager inside a hospital ward. The victim, Riyazuddin, had been undergoing treatment for an abdominal infection since June 23 and was attacked in front of doctors and his relatives on Sunday.
The strike, led by the Resident Doctors’ Association (RDA) and supported by the Delhi Nursing Federation and other medical associations, began on Monday morning. While emergency services remain operational, outpatient departments, laboratories, and other non-emergency services have been suspended.
Nitesh Kumar, president of the RDA, affirmed the strike’s purpose to demand enhanced security measures within the hospital premises. “Our members are resolute in their demand for improved security arrangements. Despite previous assurances from the administration, adequate measures were not implemented, leading to this tragic incident,” stated Kumar.
The protest underscores longstanding grievances regarding safety protocols for medical staff and patients alike. “Until the Delhi government ensures a secure environment for all hospital occupants, our strike will continue,” declared an RDA spokesperson, emphasizing the need for tangible improvements and effective communication from hospital authorities.
The Delhi Health Minister, Saurabh Bharadwaj, responded to the situation promising a comprehensive security review across all hospitals. “Negligence in ensuring safety will not be tolerated,” assured Bharadwaj, acknowledging the gravity of the incident and the urgent need for corrective action.
Sources By Agencies