SRINAGAR: The strike by resident doctors at Government Medical College (GMC) Jammu entered its second day on Thursday, severely affecting patient care across the hospital.
The protest, led by the Resident Doctors’ Association (RDA) of GMC Jammu, follows an alleged assault on a female resident doctor after the death of a patient on July 16. As a result, emergency and outpatient department (OPD) services remain shut, with only faculty members attempting to manage essential care. However, the absence of resident doctors has caused delays and disruptions.
The incident occurred after the death of 60-year-old Rajinder Kumar, who suffered a severe brain haemorrhage and respiratory arrest. The patient’s family accused hospital staff of negligence, leading to a confrontation in which a female doctor was allegedly kicked and assaulted by a relative of the deceased.
In response, junior doctors launched a flash strike, demanding immediate arrest of those involved and stronger security measures in hospitals. The RDA, citing inaction, announced the complete closure of OPD and emergency services on July 17.
The protest has gained support from medical professionals across the country, with social media posts expressing solidarity with the doctors at GMC Jammu.
Ashutosh Gupta, Principal and Dean of GMC Jammu, addressed the media, condemned the incident and outlined interim measures to manage the crisis. “In a gruesome incident on July 16, attendants of a terminally ill patient resorted to physical and verbal violence against our doctors on emergency duty. The patient had been referred from PGI Chandigarh with a poor prognosis mentioned clearly in the discharge summary. Despite being advised to seek basic care at a local hospital, the family brought the patient to GMC, where he received the best possible treatment. CCTV footage shows the family kicking and beating the lady doctor. Such attacks are unacceptable.”
Gupta directed all Clinical and Para Clinical Heads to ensure faculty and consultants maintain adequate staffing in emergency areas until normalcy is restored.
The Jammu and Kashmir Medical Students’ Association also issued a statement on X: “We strongly condemn this incident at GMC Jammu where a doctor was assaulted. Doctors are humans too. Any grievance must be addressed through proper channels, not violence. We urge the Government to ensure strict action and provide immediate protection to healthcare workers across J&K.”
Meanwhile, the family of the deceased patient maintains that negligence led to the death, further fuelling tensions. No arrests have been reported yet.
The RDA has reiterated its demands, which include the arrest of those involved, improved security within hospital premises, and legal safeguards for healthcare professionals. The association has vowed to continue the strike until the demands are met, warning of further escalation if no action is taken. (KNO)
