New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday expressed serious concern over alleged attacks on doctors by political party members in Maharashtra and directed the state government to take immediate action against politicians involved in such incidents.
The court’s observation came a day after an alleged assault at Relief Hospital in Maharashtra’s Palghar district, where members of the Shiv Sena reportedly confronted doctors and other hospital staff over the discharge of a person injured during the Dahi Handi celebrations.
Palghar Police have registered a case against 17 people in connection with the incident. Those named include members of the Shiv Sena faction led by Eknath Shinde. The complaint was filed by a hospital employee and alleges that party office bearers entered the emergency department before an argument broke out with medical staff.
Among those named in the complaint are Shiv Sena district chief Kundan Sankhe and city chief Rahul Gharat.
CCTV footage from the hospital has reportedly captured parts of the confrontation. The footage allegedly shows a receptionist being slapped after attempting to intervene, while a woman employee was reportedly threatened when she tried to step in.
The incident has renewed concerns over the safety of doctors and healthcare workers, particularly when disagreements involving patients or their families escalate into physical confrontations.
The Supreme Court’s direction comes amid growing concern over such incidents in Maharashtra. The court emphasised that political influence cannot be allowed to shield individuals accused of assaulting medical professionals.
The Palghar Police investigation is continuing, with the allegations against the accused to be examined as part of the legal process.
The latest case has once again brought attention to the need for stronger protection for doctors, nurses and hospital employees, who can face heightened risks when disputes over treatment, discharge or hospital procedures turn confrontational.
The court’s direction is expected to put greater pressure on authorities to respond firmly to allegations of violence against healthcare workers and ensure that such cases are dealt with through due legal process.
