Doctors at Capital Hospital in Bhubaneswar continued providing outpatient services on Saturday while wearing black badges to register a silent protest against the recent attack on an on-duty doctor.
The protest was organised by the Junior Doctors’ Association to highlight concerns over the safety and security of government doctors. It followed an incident in which a patient’s relative allegedly assaulted a doctor inside the hospital premises, leaving both the doctor and a supporting staff member injured. The episode has sparked widespread resentment among healthcare workers, who say incidents of violence against medical professionals are becoming alarmingly frequent.
Despite the protest, doctors assured that patient care would not be affected. However, they cautioned that outpatient services could be suspended in the coming days if effective security measures are not put in place by the authorities.
Meanwhile, Health Secretary Aswathy S visited Capital Hospital to assess the situation. Addressing the media, she said ensuring the safety of doctors is a priority for the government. She added that consultations are underway with the police and expressed hope that those responsible for the assault would be arrested soon.
Doctors have demanded the deployment of additional security personnel, strict legal action against the attackers, and stronger legal safeguards for healthcare workers. The incident has once again underscored the growing vulnerability of doctors in public hospitals and the urgent need to create a safer working environment without compromising patient services.
