Chennai, Tamil Nadu: In a shocking incident on Wednesday morning, a Tamil Nadu government doctor was brutally stabbed seven times at a Chennai hospital by a young man whose mother had been undergoing cancer treatment under the doctor’s care. The attack took place at the Kalaignar Centenary Hospital in the Guindy area of the city, where the doctor, an oncologist, was attending to patients in the outpatient department (OPD).
The 26-year-old attacker, who was also a patient’s relative at the hospital, reportedly harbored suspicions that the doctor had prescribed incorrect medication for his mother, a cancer patient. After the attack, the assailant attempted to flee the scene but was caught by hospital staff and handed over to the police.
Doctor in Stable Condition After Attack
The victim, a senior oncologist, was stabbed multiple times on his upper chest, head, back, and stomach. Health Minister Ma Subramanian confirmed that the doctor, who also suffers from heart disease and has a pacemaker, was immediately rushed to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and is currently in stable condition. The doctor’s injuries included cuts to his forehead, back, and behind the ear, as well as a blow to his stomach.
A senior colleague of the doctor reported that the injuries were serious but not life-threatening. Despite the severity of the attack, authorities assured that the doctor’s condition is stable, and he is being closely monitored.
Assailant Arrested
The attacker, identified as a 26-year-old man, was arrested shortly after the incident. Police revealed that the assailant used a small knife hidden on his person to carry out the attack. According to Health Minister Ma Subramanian, there were no security lapses at the hospital, although the incident has raised serious concerns about the safety of medical professionals.
Following the attack, Chief Minister MK Stalin condemned the assault and called for a full investigation into the incident. He assured the public that measures would be taken to prevent such attacks on healthcare workers in the future. "The service of doctors is laudable, and it is our responsibility to ensure their safety," Stalin said in a statement on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter).
The Chief Minister also praised the selfless work of government doctors, emphasizing their tireless efforts in providing treatment to patients, regardless of the time or circumstances. "The government will take measures to prevent such incidents from happening in the future," he added.
Rising Concerns Over Healthcare Worker Safety
This attack has once again brought attention to the growing issue of violence against healthcare workers in India. Just a few years ago, the brutal rape and murder of a doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Hospital had sparked national outrage. In that case, one accused, Sanjay Roy, was arrested and charged for the crime.
The safety of healthcare workers, who often work under high pressure and in stressful conditions, has become a significant concern across the country. Many doctors’ associations and hospital staff have raised alarms over the lack of adequate security measures, especially in government hospitals, where such incidents have been on the rise.
Government to Strengthen Safety Measures
In light of the recent attack, the Tamil Nadu government has promised to increase security at healthcare facilities, with a focus on ensuring the safety of doctors, nurses, and other medical staff. The state government is also expected to introduce more stringent laws to deter attacks on healthcare professionals.
The incident in Chennai has underscored the urgent need for better protection and security for medical personnel, who often face physical and emotional stress in their line of duty.
As investigations into the attack continue, hospital officials and health authorities are working closely with law enforcement to ensure that the assailant is brought to justice and that such incidents are prevented in the future.
