In a shocking incident at the Kalaignar Centenary Super Speciality Hospital (KCSSH) in Chennai, Dr. Balaji Jagannath, an associate professor of Medical Oncology, was attacked on duty by the family member of a patient on Wednesday morning, November 13, 2024.
The doctor sustained severe injuries, including to his neck, head and back, leading to excessive blood loss due to his preexisting cardiac condition and use of anticoagulants. Dr. Jagannath is currently in the ICU and under critical care, having been swiftly resuscitated and operated on by a team of Cardiothoracic, Vascular, and Neurosurgeons.
The attacker, identified as Vignesh from Perungalathur, reportedly confronted Dr. Jagannath over the treatment of his cancer-stricken mother, holding the doctor responsible for her deteriorating condition. A heated exchange ensued, during which Vignesh allegedly drew a knife and assaulted the doctor. He was apprehended by hospital security and is now in police custody, along with four others detained for questioning.
Chief Minister M.K. Stalin addressed the incident on social media, expressing deep concern and ordering a comprehensive inquiry. “Our government doctors’ selfless service is invaluable; their safety is our responsibility,” he stated. Health Minister Ma. Subramanian and Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin have since visited the hospital.
The attack has sparked widespread protests among healthcare professionals. The Tamil Nadu Government Doctors Association, Tamil Nadu Medical Officers Association and Service Doctors and Post Graduates Association (SDPGA) have condemned the assault, demanding justice under the Tamil Nadu Medicare Service Persons and Medicare Service Institutions Act, 2008. In response, doctors’ unions have withdrawn non-emergency services across state hospitals and are calling for a security overhaul.
The medical profession of the country is deeply disturbed and is sceptical of the remedial measures on this ever-recurring violence. Only a comprehensive overhaul of the security atmosphere in the hospitals could restore the confidence of doctors. The nation owes this to its doctors,” said IMA National President Dr. R V Asokan and Dr. Anilkumar J Nayak, Honorary Secretary General, in a statement.
This incident is a stark reminder of the urgent need for effective measures to ensure the safety of healthcare professionals dedicated to saving lives.
