Birbhum: A nurse was seriously injured late Wednesday evening after being assaulted by an intoxicated youth at a health centre in West Bengal’s Birbhum district. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of healthcare workers, particularly women, across the state.
According to police sources, the nurse was preparing to leave after her duty when a local man, allegedly drunk, entered the health centre and demanded medicine. Upon her refusal, a verbal argument escalated into violence.
Assault and injuries
In a sudden fit of rage, the assailant, identified as 25-year-old Rajib Kahar, picked up stones and repeatedly struck the nurse on her head. Local residents, alerted by her cries, rushed to the scene and caught the attacker before handing him over to the police.
The injured nurse was immediately admitted to Suri Super Speciality Hospital, where doctors treated her head wounds with 22 stitches. Authorities confirmed that she is now stable and under observation.
Investigation and arrest
Rajib Kahar has been taken into police custody and booked for assault causing grievous injury. The Birbhum police are investigating the circumstances leading up to the attack, including the alleged influence of alcohol and the motive behind the confrontation.
Police officials have emphasised that such attacks on healthcare workers are unacceptable and vowed strict action. “Healthcare professionals perform essential services, and violence against them cannot be tolerated. The accused will face the full extent of the law,” a senior officer said.
Concerns for healthcare worker safety
This incident is not isolated. West Bengal has witnessed multiple cases of attacks on women in medical professions. In Howrah, at Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay Government Medical College and Hospital, a female junior doctor was allegedly assaulted and threatened with rape by a home guard and two relatives of a patient. The accused, Sheikh Babulal, Sheikh Samrat, and Sheikh Hasibur, were arrested following the complaint lodged by the victim.
Healthcare associations and activists have repeatedly called for increased security measures at hospitals and health centres, including CCTV surveillance, adequate police presence, and awareness campaigns about the protection of frontline medical staff.
Conclusion
The assault on the nurse in Birbhum highlights the pressing need for stringent safety protocols in medical facilities across West Bengal. Authorities and the community alike are urged to ensure that healthcare workers can perform their duties without fear of harassment or violence.