On March 7, government doctors in Haryana have announced a suspension of Outpatient Department (OPD) services across the state following the alleged assault of a doctor by a police officer at a community health center in Karnal district. The protest was called by the Haryana Civil Medical Services Association (HCMSA), which demanded strict action against the police officer involved.
The incident reportedly took place at the Community Health Centre (CHC) in Gharaunda, Karnal district, where Dr. Prashant Chauhan, a government doctor, was allegedly assaulted by Station House Officer (SHO) Deepak Kumar of the Gharaunda police station.
According to reports, the dispute began after a heated exchange between the doctor and the police officer. The confrontation escalated inside the hospital premises, where the SHO allegedly slapped the doctor.
The incident triggered widespread outrage among government doctors in the state.
Following the incident, doctors associated with the Haryana Civil Medical Services Association announced that they would suspend OPD services on March 7 in protest against the alleged assault.
The association said the strike was being held to demand registration of an FIR against the police officer involved and to ensure the safety and dignity of doctors working in government healthcare facilities.
Doctors argued that incidents of violence or intimidation against medical professionals severely affect healthcare delivery and create an unsafe working environment.
After the incident drew attention, the district administration initiated action. Authorities ordered an inquiry into the matter, and SHO Deepak Kumar was suspended pending investigation.
Officials said the inquiry would determine the sequence of events and establish responsibility.
Representatives of the Indian Medical Association (IMA) and other medical groups called for strict action against those responsible and urged the government to implement stronger safeguards for healthcare workers.
They stressed that doctors working in public hospitals often face stressful situations and require administrative protection to carry out their duties effectively.
The OPD strike led to disruptions in routine healthcare services at several government hospitals across Haryana. However, emergency services were expected to continue to ensure that critically ill patients receive care.
(Rh/ARC)
