On Tuesday afternoon, a doctor on COVID-19 duty in Assam was attacked by a mob that was composed of the relatives and friends of a patient who died at a healthcare facility. On Wednesday, the police arrested almost 24 people who were involved in this incident.

Dr Seuj Kumar Senapati was kicked and beaten with brooms and utensils by the angry mob at the Udali Covid care centre ofHojai district. This brutal incident of the assault came to light following a viral video shared extensively on social media.

Dr Senapati was doing his government-mandated rural service duty after completion of his post-MBBS internship. He was recently posted at the Udali facility.

Hojai district SP, Barun Purakayastha said that the patient had died in the hospital and relatives and friends of the deceased had come with the patient from their village and few of them came later on hearing the news that the patient died. All offenders are arrested.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma put out the names of the 24 arrested people on Twitter. He further mentioned that he is personally monitoring this case and promised that justice will be served.

Assam’s Special DGP of Law and Order, GP Singh, also tweeted that they would submit a strong charge sheet as soon as possible and confirmed that the criminals will be brought to justice.

On Wednesday, the Indian Medical Association, Assam unit called on all doctors in the state to refrain from outdoor patient services as a symbolic protest. IMA has demanded animmediate trial of the accused people. It will also seek the positioning of armed security personnel in all healthcare facilities of the state.

Dr Satyajit Borah, president of the IMA, Assam unit said that they are happy as the government of Assam has taken immediate steps. They will closely monitor the situation and press for justice in this matter.

Source: The Indian Express