Hospital services disrupted as doctors protest assault at Narayani Hospital

Hospital services ground to a halt in Birgunj, Nepal, as doctors and health workers launched protests following an assault on a physician and vandalism at Narayani Hospital. The demonstrations, which began Saturday, have led to the suspension of all services, including emergency care, at Narayani Hospital since Sunday.

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Those responsible should be identified through CCTV footage recorded on the day of the incident and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

Medical staff gathered Monday, chanting slogans and demanding swift legal action against the perpetrators and enhanced security within hospitals. The Nepal Medical Association called for the protest, prompting private hospitals in the city to also report disruptions as doctors joined the demonstrations.

Narayani Hospital, usually bustling with patients, stood deserted. The hospital's acting medical superintendent urged the district police to identify and prosecute those involved, suggesting CCTV footage could be used. The attack occurred Saturday after a patient died during treatment, leading enraged relatives and residents to storm the emergency ward, vandalize property, and assault Dr. Pramod Ram, who was on duty and has since been transferred to Kathmandu for further treatment.

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doctors and health workers had been left physically and psychologically traumatised by the attack, forcing the suspension of all treatment services, including emergency care.

Police have detained one suspect but have not released their identity. Hospital officials stated that protests might ease if authorities provide credible assurances of justice. Talks between protesting doctors and the chief district officer were expected later Monday.

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the doctors were prepared to resume emergency services while keeping other services suspended if the chief district officer provided a credible assurance that everyone involved in the attack would be identified and brought to justice.