A fresh video has surfaced online, adding a new twist to the alleged assault case at Indira Gandhi Medical College and Hospital (IGMC) in Shimla. This comes as the hospital administration missed the deadline to submit its investigation report to the Chief Minister's office.
Second Video Shows Heated Exchange
On Wednesday, two days after the initial viral video showed an alleged assault, a second clip emerged on social media. This approximately 10-second video captures a heated argument between the patient, Arjun Singh (36), and Senior Resident Dr Raghav Narula.
In the video, Dr Narula is heard telling the patient, "You are merely four years elder to me." The footage also shows the doctor moving away from the patient's bed. This new evidence has further complicated the ongoing investigation into the incident that occurred on Monday.
Probe Report Misses Deadline
Despite a direct order from Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu to complete the inquiry within 24 hours by Wednesday, the IGMC administration failed to submit its report on time. Sources indicate the report was intended to be submitted through the officiating Secretary (Health), Kadeem Sandeep Vasant.
When contacted, Vasant stated that the administration was still compiling the report and it would most likely be filed by late Wednesday night. "All aspects of the incident need to be inquired into," he added, explaining the delay.
Doctors' Bodies Rally Behind Accused
The incident began when Arjun Singh, a canteen owner and resident of Kupvi in Shimla district, filed a police complaint on Monday. He accused two doctors, Dr Raghav Narula and Dr Nikhil, of physically assaulting him. Following a preliminary fact-finding enquiry, authorities suspended Dr Narula on the same day.
However, the medical community has rallied in support of the accused doctors. On Tuesday, the Resident Doctors' Association of IGMC Shimla defended the two. They were also backed by the State Association of Medical and Dental College Teachers (SAMDCOT) of IGMC and GDC Shimla.
These associations have demanded an in-depth probe into the circumstances that led to the altercation. They have also urged authorities to investigate the actions of an agitated mob that allegedly stormed the hospital and tried to target the doctors, who were later secured in a chamber under police protection.
The case continues to develop as authorities work to finalize the probe report and determine the appropriate course of action.
