Kolkata, 19 April (H.S.): Chaos broke out late Friday night at a private multi-super specialty hospital in Durgapur, West Bardhaman district, after a patient’s family members allegedly opened fire inside the hospital premises, accusing doctors of medical negligence. Police have arrested four individuals in connection with the incident.

The turmoil began over the treatment of 53-year-old Basudev Pal, a resident of Angadpur, who had been critically injured in a road accident on Thursday. He was admitted to a private hospital in the Shibpur area of Durgapur. According to hospital sources, Pal’s condition was extremely critical, and doctors had advised an immediate transfer to a higher medical facility.

However, the patient’s family members alleged that the hospital failed to communicate with them and did not allow them to meet the patient. Frustrated and angry, they began a protest in front of the hospital on Friday night, accusing the medical staff of negligence.

The situation escalated when members of the Durgapur police station were called in to manage the unrest. According to police, the agitated family members tried to force their way into the hospital to confront the doctors. Security personnel attempted to stop them, leading to a heated exchange and physical altercation.

Amid the scuffle, one of the patient’s relatives allegedly drew a firearm and fired three rounds. Fortunately, no one was injured in the firing. A large police contingent was immediately deployed to the scene, and the situation was brought under control after several tense minutes.

Police have arrested the main accused, Tapas Roy, along with Amit Karmakar, Animesh Pal, and Ajit Hazra. A firearm was recovered from their possession. All four accused are has been produced before the Durgapur sub-divisional court on Saturday.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh