FAIMA condemns attack on doctor in Chennai, demands implementation of Healthcare Professionals Protection Act

New Delhi [India], November 13 : The Federation of All India Medical Association (FAIMA) on Wednesday strongly condemned the violent attack on Dr Balaji, an oncologist in Chennai, who was stabbed seven times by a patient's relative and demanded nationwide action to address this issue, calling for increased security measures, enforcement of the Healthcare Professionals Protection Act, and swift justice for perpetrators.
"The Federation of All India Medical Associations (FAIMA) condemns in the strongest terms the recent violent attack on Dr. Balaji, an oncologist in Chennai. This tragic incident is a stark reminder of the escalating violence faced by healthcare professionals across the nation, which has reached intolerable levels," their statement read.
FAIMA also demanded increased strengthened security and enforcement of Healthcare Professionals Protection Act.
"Healthcare facilities should not be places of fear. We urge all state governments to prioritize the safety of healthcare providers by enforcing strict access controls and increasing security presence in hospitals," the statement read.
Calling for rigorous implementation of legislation to protect healthcare workers, the statement read, "It is essential that legislation protecting healthcare workers is rigorously implemented. FAIMA calls on authorities to uphold these laws firmly and transparently, sending a clear message against violence in healthcare."
Earlier today, Dr Balaji was allegedly attacked by accused Vigneswaran, in Chennai's Kalaignar Centenary Hospital. According to officials, the accused stabbed the doctor seven times.
The accused had been coming to the hospital for his mother's chemo procedures, and his mother had died of stage 4 ovarian cancer.
FAIMA also extended its full support to Tamil Nadu Resident Doctors Association (TNRDA) in demanding immediate protections and accountability.
"We stand united with them in demanding swift, decisive actions to bring the perpetrators to justice and prevent such attacks from recurring," the statement added.
Earlier, TNRDA in its statement demanded immediate government action.
"This incident highlights the severe safety risks faced by healthcare professionals across Tamil Nadu. We demand immediate government action to safeguard the lives of doctors and medical staff," said the statement by the association.
They further demanded increased police protection, controlled access of attendees and implementation of past safety recommendations.
"TNRDA is committed to standing together with our colleagues across the state, advocating for a safer work environment for all healthcare professionals," the statement read.
Earlier, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) also condemned the attack and called for decisive action to protect healthcare workers.
"No amount of superficial damage control exercises by Governments is going to make doctors work without fear in this country. Strong deterrent legislation, exemplary punishments and proactive safety measures are required now and here. All Governments have been put on notice with this heinous crime," the statement by IMA added.