Patna: The death of a NEET student in Patna has triggered widespread concern and protests, prompting the Indian Medical Association (IMA) to call for police protection for a private hospital and its director. The medical body said emotions were running high and warned against threats or violence directed at doctors and healthcare staff.
In a letter to the Director General of Police (DGP) of Bihar, the IMA asked authorities to ensure security at Hiramati Prabhat Memorial Hospital and for its director, Dr Satish Kumar Singh. The association said doctors often become targets after tragic outcomes, even when treatment decisions are made in good faith.
The IMA stressed that any allegation of medical negligence should be examined fairly and within the law. It added that intimidation, pressure tactics or attacks on hospitals were unacceptable and could undermine patient care and public trust in the health system.
According to available information, the student was staying at Shambhu Girls’ Hostel when her health worsened. She was first admitted to Hiramati Prabhat Memorial Hospital and treated there for about three days. When her condition did not improve, doctors referred her to Medanta Hospital for advanced care, where she later died.
Following her death, tensions rose in the area as family members and local residents expressed anger. Several organisations staged demonstrations and raised slogans against the hospital, adding to concerns over safety.
Amid the unrest, Dr Satish Kumar Singh announced that he would address the media at a noon press conference to present his account of events. Police officials said the situation was being monitored as calls for calm and a lawful inquiry continue.
