A significant rally was organized in Jaipur on Saturday, with doctors, hospital staff, and their family members marching from the Jaipur Medical Association building to Trimurti Circle. The protest was held to demand justice for Dr Somdev Bansal, a physician associated with a private hospital in Mansarovar, who was arrested by police on April 12 for allegedly submitting forged and fabricated documents under the Rajasthan Government Health Scheme.
Background of the Case
The case against Dr Bansal was registered at the Mansarovar police station on September 29, 2025, following a complaint by Jitendra Kumar Sharma. Sharma alleged that Dr Bansal had submitted fraudulent documents related to the treatment of Sharma's mother, who had been admitted to the hospital. The arrest has sparked widespread outrage among the medical community in Jaipur.
Indefinite Shutdown of Medical Services
The rally took place amid an indefinite shutdown of outpatient departments (OPD), inpatient departments (IPD), and emergency services by private hospitals in Jaipur, which began on Friday. This has caused major hardship for patients across the city, with routine consultations, follow-up care, diagnostic guidance, and treatment for chronic illnesses being severely disrupted. Medical services remain suspended at nearly all private hospitals, leaving patients scrambling for alternatives.
The strike was called by private medical institutions following alleged misconduct with the family of Dr Somdev Bansal during proceedings at the Rajasthan High Court, Jaipur Bench, on Thursday. According to doctors, during the hearing on Dr Bansal's bail plea, a group of individuals created noise, raised slogans, and disrupted court proceedings, preventing the hearing from continuing. The matter has been adjourned to May 11, as confirmed by an official of the Indian Medical Association (IMA), Jaipur branch.
Unity and Solidarity Among Medical Professionals
The rally witnessed large-scale participation from medical professionals, hospital employees, and their families, sending a strong message of unity and solidarity. Participants carried placards and chanted slogans demanding justice for Dr Bansal and an end to what they perceive as harassment of doctors. The IMA has extended its support to the striking hospitals and called for a peaceful resolution.
The indefinite shutdown has raised concerns about the impact on patient care, especially for those requiring emergency treatment. Many patients have been forced to seek care at government hospitals, which are already stretched thin. The situation remains tense as both sides await the next court hearing.
