DMCH forms probe committee after clash

Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH) has formed a six-member probe committee to investigate a clash between intern doctors and Dhaka University (DU) students, as interns threatened to announce a 24-hour work abstention demanding justice and improved security.

The committee, constituted following Wednesday’s violence at the hospital’s emergency department, has been asked to submit its report by Saturday.

The incident led to a near five-hour shutdown of emergency services, causing significant disruption to patient care before operations resumed around 10:15 PM.

The Intern Doctors’ Society declared the strike early Thursday, placing a four-point demand that includes the arrest and punishment of those involved in the attack, deployment of armed police for hospital security and disciplinary action against those responsible. They warned of a nationwide shutdown by intern doctors if their demands are not met within the stipulated time.

According to hospital sources, situation escalated around 5:30 PM when a DU student suffering from acute pancreatitis was brought to the emergency unit. An on-duty doctor prescribed emergency injections that were unavailable at the hospital and reportedly scarce in nearby pharmacies, triggering a heated dispute.

Witnesses said the argument quickly turned into a physical altercation, followed by chase and counter-chase between the two sides. Panicked doctors close emergency department gates for safety reasons, temporarily halting all medical care.

Later, DU proctorial team intervened, urging students to leave the premises. A meeting involving health officials, police and student representatives helped defuse tensions, allowing emergency services to resume latenight.

However, situation remains tense, with intern doctors warning of stricter action if their demands for safety and accountability are not addressed promptly.

NRE/AM