Nurses at the Lok Nayak Jai Parkash Civil Hospital in Kurukshetra observed a two-hour pen down strike on Monday to protest against remarks made by Renu Bhatia, Chairperson of the Haryana State Commission for Women, and demanded an apology. The protest followed a sexual assault incident at the hospital last month involving a 15-year-old girl and Dr. Shailendra Kumar, who had been reengaged as a consultant after retirement.
Background of the Incident
Renu Bhatia visited the hospital on Sunday to inquire about the sexual assault case and reprimanded officials for negligence. During her visit, she allegedly made remarks against the nursing staff, accusing them of involvement with the accused doctor. The nurses found these allegations baseless and unacceptable.
Nurses' Response
Protesting nurses stated that they were performing their duties diligently. A nursing officer explained that there are around 16 doctors conducting OPDs, and nurses are called immediately when needed. On the day of the incident, no such call was made by the accused doctor. Senior nursing officer Anita said, "The incident was unfortunate, but blaming the nursing staff and alleging involvement with the doctor is unacceptable. The Chairperson should apologize, or we will intensify the protest." Another nurse, Monika, added that Bhatia should have gathered information about staff duties before levelling allegations. A staff nurse whose duty was at another OPD was also blamed for the lapse.
Official Intervention
After the protest, the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) and Principal Medical Officer held discussions with the nursing staff. CMO Sukhbir Singh stated, "The Chairperson expressed unhappiness over certain issues, but staff nurses were unhappy with some remarks. They observed a two-hour pen-down strike. I spoke with them, and they resumed duties. Alternate arrangements were made to ensure no inconvenience to patients." Bhatia had earlier recommended action, including suspension of negligent staff members.
Support from Federation
The All-India Government Nurses Federation has extended support to the protesting nurses and requested the Haryana Chief Minister to remove Bhatia from her post and take action for her derogatory remarks against the nursing staff.
