Assault on intern doctor at Syhet hospital sparks work stoppage
Sunday, 18 January 2026
An intern doctor has been assaulted at Sylhet MAG Osmani Medical College Hospital, prompting junior doctors to launch an indefinite work stoppage in protest, reports bdnews24.com.
The attack took place on Friday night. Police said three relatives of a patient had been detained in connection with the incident.
Intern doctors said they began the protest to demand a safe working environment. Hospital authorities said medical services were uninterrupted, with mid-level doctors and other staff remaining on duty.
Hospital Director Brig Gen Umar Rashed Munir said a five-strong panel would be formed to investigate the incident.
Those detained were identified by police as Sunamganj-native Shimul Ahmed, 35, his wife Nazira Siddika, 32, and Jabed Mia, 30.
According to hospital authorities, an argument broke out late Friday night between intern doctors, patients, and their relatives at Surgery Ward No. 4 on the fourth floor of the hospital.
The dispute later escalated into a physical clash, leaving at least five people injured, including a female doctor. Police arrived at the scene and brought the situation under control.
After the work stoppage began, senior hospital and administrative officials, led by the director, held a meeting with protesting interns around noon.
Following nearly an hour of discussions, the interns announced that the work stoppage would continue.
Later intern Mizanur Rahman said they had placed several demands before the hospital authorities, adding that they were ready to return to work at any time once workplace safety and other issues were resolved.
Brig General Umar said ensuring the safety of doctors and staff was the hospital's top priority and that necessary measures had been taken to maintain calm in and around the hospital.
He said the investigation committee was reviewing all aspects of the incident and expressed hope for a swift and lasting solution.