Patients, Attendants Allege Abuse and Assault; Protesters Demand Independent Inquiry

By Arun Sharma
Special Correspondent, Modern Shrines Bureau, Delhi

New Delhi: Private security guards deployed at government hospitals in the national capital are once again under scrutiny following fresh allegations of misconduct involving patients, attendants, social activists, and journalists.


According to protesters and complainants, security personnel have, on several occasions, allegedly resorted to abusive language, physical intimidation, and assault in the name of maintaining order within hospital premises. They further alleged that despite repeated complaints, effective action against the concerned security agencies has often remained absent, leading to growing public resentment.


The issue resurfaced after a recent controversy, prompting demonstrations outside the hospital. Protesters argued that if any individual is found violating hospital rules or creating a disturbance, the appropriate course of action is to hand the matter over to the hospital authorities or the police, rather than resorting to alleged use of force or inappropriate behaviour.


The demonstrators demanded an independent inquiry into the functioning of private security agencies deployed in government hospitals. They also called for mandatory training of security personnel in public conduct, conflict management, and human rights, along with strict action against agencies and individuals if the allegations are substantiated through an official investigation.


Protesters emphasized that hospitals are places of treatment where patients and their families are already under significant emotional and psychological stress. In such circumstances, they said, security personnel are expected to act with restraint, sensitivity, and in accordance with the law.


Disclaimer: The allegations mentioned in this report have been made by protesters and complainants. The claims have not yet been officially confirmed, and the findings of any inquiry or investigation have not been made public by the concerned authorities.