Haveri Hospital Employee Attempts Suicide Amid Allegations of Harassment by Senior Doctors
A disturbing incident has unfolded at the district hospital in Haveri, where a Group D employee attempted suicide on Wednesday, citing severe harassment by two senior doctors. The case has brought workplace ethics and employee treatment in government hospitals under intense scrutiny.
Employee Alleges Years of Verbal Abuse and Humiliation
The employee, identified as Siddappa Reddy from Hurubinahatti village in Gokak taluk of Belagavi district, made a serious suicide attempt after what he describes as persistent harassment by district surgeon Dr. PR Havanur and hospital doctor Dr. Suresh Kadli. In a detailed account, Reddy claimed that both doctors subjected him to obscene language and psychological torture over several years.
"Both harassed me by uttering obscene words for years. They should be prosecuted severely," Reddy demanded after the incident, highlighting the severity of his allegations.
Specific Incident Triggered Extreme Step
Reddy explained that a particular incident on January 21 pushed him to the brink. "I allowed patients to meet doctors as per their instructions. It was my duty that day. Since Dr. Kadli did not instruct me to send the next patient, I kept quiet. However, Dr. Kadli scolded me with obscene words and even called Dr. Havanur," he recounted.
He further described how the doctors took him into a room and subjected him to what he called torture, mocking him as an outsider and demeaning his work. "They scolded me, saying I was here to clean for a salary of Rs 8,000 per month. Irked by their behaviour, I intended to commit suicide," Reddy stated, revealing the depth of his despair.
Suicide Note and Immediate Aftermath
Reddy reportedly left a suicide note detailing his grievances before making the attempt. His colleagues discovered him in time and rushed him to the same hospital where he works. Medical professionals at the facility confirmed that he is currently recovering from the incident.
Family Members Voice Support and Additional Allegations
Reddy's wife, Kavya, supported her husband's claims, stating that he had been deeply upset by Dr. Kadli's harassment. She revealed that Dr. Kadli had even attempted to get Reddy transferred to Belagavi. "The doctor was speaking like he was paying wages from his own pocket," she added, emphasizing the condescending attitude her husband faced.
Hospital Administration Responds with Investigation Promise
Dr. Parasappa Churchihal, the hospital administrator, addressed the situation, confirming that Reddy is out of danger. "He is a good worker. We will seek an explanation from Dr. Kadli and act accordingly," he stated, acknowledging the seriousness of the allegations.
The administrator explained the procedural limitations, noting, "Since Reddy is under treatment, we can't inquire anymore. Once he is recovered, we will speak to him too." This indicates that a formal investigation will commence once Reddy is medically stable to participate.
Broader Implications for Workplace Environment
This incident raises significant questions about workplace culture in government healthcare facilities. The allegations of verbal abuse, humiliation based on salary and job role, and the psychological impact on employees highlight potential systemic issues that require attention.
The case has drawn attention to the need for:
- Strict anti-harassment policies in healthcare institutions
- Better grievance redressal mechanisms for hospital staff
- Psychological support systems for employees facing workplace stress
- Accountability measures for senior medical professionals
As the investigation unfolds, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of workplace harassment and the urgent need for institutional reforms to protect vulnerable employees in critical service sectors.
