Chennai: Fury and frustration can take many forms. They can be of very dangerous proportions at times. Just as a doctor found out to his consternation.
Dr Balaji was attacked with a knife by a patient’s son at a government hospital in Chennai on Wednesday, and is being treated after suffering seven stab wounds, police said.
Dr Balaji was on duty when the accused, Chennai resident Vignesh, was attacked with a knife.
Vignesh tried to run away after attacking the doctor but was apprehended and handed over to police.
The shocking incident comes at a time when doctors and medical staff across India are demanding stricter safety and security measures in hospitals, following the widespread uproar and protests over the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College & Hospital.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin expressed shock over the incident and directed a detailed inquiry.
“It is shocking that Dr Balaji, who is working at the Guindy Kalaignar Centenary Super Specialty Hospital, was stabbed by a family member of a patient. The person involved in this incident was immediately arrested. I have instructed that all necessary medical treatment be given to Dr Balaji and that a detailed enquiry be conducted into the matter,” Stalin said.
“The selfless work of our government doctors in providing appropriate treatment to patients at government hospitals is immeasurable. It is our duty to ensure their safety. The government will take all measures to prevent such incidents in the future,” the CM added.
State Health Minister Ma Subramanian promised swift action.
“Two persons have been arrested, and the police will take immediate steps to arrest others involved,” the minister said.