A woman doctor was allegedly slapped by a man brought for a medical examination at a primary health centre in Maharashtra’s Wardha district, triggering protests by government doctors and raising serious concerns about the safety of healthcare professionals.
The incident occurred in the presence of police personnel and was captured on CCTV, according to media reports.
The incident took place at the Talegaon Shyamji Pant Primary Health Centre, where Dr Shraddha Bhumre was on duty. The accused, identified as Qadir Ali Razzaq Ali, had reportedly been brought to the facility for a medical examination before being produced in court.
CCTV Footage Sparks Outrage
According to reports, the accused allegedly slapped Dr Bhumre after completing the examination and signing the required documents. Five police personnel were reportedly present at the health centre when the incident occurred.
The footage subsequently circulated on social media, prompting widespread condemnation from medical professionals. The incident has renewed concerns about the protection of doctors working in government healthcare facilities, particularly during examinations involving individuals in police custody.
Doctors Demand Strict Action
Members of the Gazetted Medical Officers’ Association met Wardha District Collector Vanmathi C and submitted a memorandum demanding strict action against the accused.
The association also questioned the conduct of the police personnel present at the scene, alleging that they had failed to take adequate precautions to prevent the assault.
Doctors demanded appropriate action against the officers concerned and warned that outpatient department (OPD) services would remain suspended until their demands were addressed. The matter has also been raised with the Maharashtra Association of Gazetted Medical Officers (MAGMO).
Healthcare Workers’ Safety in Focus
The incident has once again brought the issue of violence against healthcare workers into focus. Medical professionals have repeatedly called for stronger security arrangements and prompt action against those accused of assaulting doctors while they perform their duties.
The latest episode has intensified demands for accountability and better protection for medical staff. Further details regarding the legal action taken against the accused and any disciplinary proceedings involving the police personnel were not confirmed in the reports reviewed.