Doctors and nurses at government hospitals and health centres throughout Maharashtra began an indefinite strike on Tuesday. The action followed an alleged assault on medical staff by a Shiv Sena corporator inside a hospital in Kalyan-Dombivli, which caused widespread anger among healthcare workers.
The protesters halted outpatient services at public facilities, though emergency care continued. Hundreds of patients were left without treatment and many sought help at private clinics instead.
CCTV footage reportedly shows the corporator, Ramesh Mhatre, verbally abusing and attacking doctors at Shastrinagar Hospital. Staff claim he also issued threats of further violence.
The events started after a woman gave birth via caesarean on Monday. The newborn needed urgent specialised care because the umbilical cord was wrapped around its neck. With the neonatal unit full, two gynaecologists advised transferring the infant elsewhere.
Relatives contacted the corporator when the doctors could not take his calls. He later arrived at the facility and allegedly assaulted Dr Vaibhav Salunkhe and Dr Srushti Baviskar. Two nurses who tried to intervene were also pushed.
The incident was reported to the municipal commissioner. A complaint was filed at Vishnunagar police station, but no FIR has been registered yet.
In response, doctors and nurses across the state suspended regular work. They said services would resume only after an FIR is filed against those involved. Police are investigating the footage, while the corporator has not commented.
