3 doctors assaulted by locals in Bagerhat hospital

Three doctors were physically assaulted at Morelganj Upazila Health Complex in Bagerhat today (2 October).

A group of around 20-25 individuals stormed the hospital around 12 noon and carried out the attack.

According to the doctors, assistant community medical officer Chandan Das was dragged from the emergency department by the attackers and started beating him. His mobile phone and wallet were also stolen during the incident. When other doctors - Tanushree Daqua and Dr Rezwana Mehzabin Bonna - intervened to stop the assault, they too were attacked.

Dr Rezwana Mehzabin Bonna said the attackers were led by a local man named Md Shimul Sheikh. 

She described the incident as a terrifying experience that has left hospital staff feeling insecure. 

The doctors have announced that they will go on strike from tomorrow, if the attackers involved in the assault are not arrested by the end of the day.

They also called for increased security measures at the hospital. 

Dr Sharmi Roy, upazila health and family planning officer, alleged that Shimul Sheikh, the leader of the attackers, is associated with a private clinic run by Dr Mufti Kamal Hussain, former health and family planning officer of Morelganj Upazila. 

When contacted on Dr Mufti Kamal Hussain's phone, another person answered and informed that Kamal is no longer using that number.

Dr Sharmi Roy said a complaint has been filed with the local army camp regarding the incident.  

Additionally, preparations are underway to lodge a formal complaint at the police station, she added.

Morelganj Police Station Officer-in-Charge Mohammad Samsuddin stated that police officers were sent to the hospital after receiving reports of the doctors' assault. 

He said the situation has since been brought under control and the doctors have been requested to file a formal complaint. 

The OC assured that appropriate action would be taken against the accused individuals once a complaint is received.