Shimla: A senior doctor at Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC), Shimla, has been accused of physically assaulting a patient inside the hospital premises,
triggering widespread public outrage and protests by the patient’s attendants. The incident, which occurred on Sunday, came to light after a video of the alleged assault went viral on social media.
According to the complaint, the patient, a resident of the Kupvi subdivision, had approached IGMC for treatment of breathing difficulties. He alleged that during the consultation, the doctor, identified as Dr SAR, a specialist in pulmonary medicine, spoke to him in a rude and demeaning manner. When the patient requested that the doctor communicate respectfully, the situation escalated, culminating in an alleged physical assault.
What’s happening in our State ?
Shocking Video from IGMC,ShimlaA patient beaten by Doctor at IGMC Shimla
When those meant to heal turn violent, accountability is non-negotiableImmediate action & accountability needed pic.twitter.com/S1XwrGd4Np
— Adv. Homi Devang Kapoor (@Homidevang31) December 22, 2025
The viral video, reportedly recorded by other patients or attendants present in the ward, shows the doctor striking the patient while he lay on a hospital bed. The patient is seen attempting to shield himself as the altercation continues. The footage quickly spread across social media platforms, drawing sharp criticism from the public and healthcare advocacy groups.
Following the incident, the patient’s attendants staged protests outside IGMC, demanding the immediate suspension of the accused doctor and strict action. Protesters raised slogans seeking justice and accountability, accusing the hospital administration of failing to ensure patient safety.
Reacting to the incident, Himachal Pradesh Health Minister Colonel Dhani Ram Shandil assured that the matter would be dealt with firmly. He summoned the Medical Superintendent, the Principal of IGMC, and other senior officials to conduct a detailed inquiry. “Such behaviour by medical professionals in government hospitals will not be tolerated,” the minister said, promising strict action if the allegations are proven.
Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur also condemned the incident, criticising the hospital administration for alleged lax oversight. He called for an impartial and transparent probe, stressing that public trust in government healthcare institutions must be protected.
As of Monday, the IGMC administration has not released an official statement, and the investigation into the incident is ongoing.
