A recent and unsettling incident of violence at a government hospital in Himachal Pradesh has reached a peaceful resolution, with both parties involved choosing the path of reconciliation. The altercation, which involved a doctor and a patient's attendant, led to a police complaint but was later settled amicably outside the legal system.
The Hospital Altercation: What Transpired in Palampur?
The incident occurred on the morning of March 10 at the Dr Rajendra Prasad Government Medical College (RPGMC) in Tanda, located in the Kangra district. According to reports, a dispute erupted between Dr Ankush Sood, a senior medical officer, and Naveen Kumar, who was attending to a patient. The confrontation quickly escalated from a war of words to a physical fight within the hospital premises, causing a significant disturbance.
Following the brawl, Naveen Kumar filed a formal complaint against Dr Sood at the Palampur police station. Based on his statement, the police registered a case under Section 160 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), which deals with affray or fighting in a public place that disturbs the peace.
From Conflict to Compromise: The Mutual Apology
The situation took a turn towards de-escalation in the subsequent days. Demonstrating a willingness to resolve the matter, both Dr Ankush Sood and complainant Naveen Kumar appeared before the police. In a significant development, they apologised to each other for their roles in the unfortunate event.
With both parties expressing regret and seeking to put the incident behind them, Naveen Kumar submitted a written application to the police. In this application, he formally stated his desire to withdraw the complaint he had filed earlier against the doctor.
Case Withdrawn, Normalcy Restored
Accepting the mutual settlement and the complainant's request, the Palampur police officially withdrew the case. This action formally brings the legal aspect of the hospital brawl to a close. The resolution highlights a move away from prolonged litigation towards a personal settlement, albeit after the incident had already drawn public attention and raised concerns about safety in healthcare settings.
While the immediate conflict is resolved, the incident underscores the heightened tensions and pressures that can exist within hospital environments. It serves as a reminder of the critical need for maintaining decorum and ensuring that hospitals remain spaces for healing, not hostility, for staff and patients alike.
