The common script of a drunk patient and his relatives assaulting a doctor and creating a nuisance with the medical equipment continues.
This time, however, the assaulters took one step ahead in their actions as they even attacked the ones appointed to take care of the society, a sub-inspector.
Doctor violence has been a norm in our country, and another sad representation of it was seen in Thiruvananthapuram. The incident took place at the Fort Taluk Hospital in Kerala's capital city.
The accused patient Vivek created a nuisance in the hospital whilst being inebriated. He attacked the doctor when he was brought for the examination.
Vivek's brother, Vishnu, reached the hospital and again attacked the doctor. He also attacked the sub-inspector and also damaged the hospital equipment. A case has been registered against them.
Dr. Kalaranjani K from Pondicherry - a MedBound member- also speaks up against doctors in a bound with the hashtag #StopBlamingTheDoctor.
No Proper Law for Violence Against Doctors
India still does not have a national law specific to violence against healthcare professionals. The health ministry invoked the Epidemic Disease Act of 1897 during the pandemic. A small amendment in the act called for a fine of Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 2 lakh and imprisonment for 3 months to 5 years.
However, once the Act is revoked, India will no longer have a national law for violence against healthcare workers.
(Input from various media sources)