Assam: Patient’s family protests medicine shortage at Digboi Civil Hospital

A tense situation erupted at Digboi Civil Hospital last night (February 4), after a patient’s family protested against the unavailability of essential medicines and basic medical supplies, including a Rs 10 syringe.

Upon questioning a nurse about the shortage, the family was reportedly told to raise the issue with Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, further escalating their frustration. The confrontation intensified when Dr. Mukherjee, the on-duty doctor, engaged in a heated argument with the patient’s relatives.

The situation gained further traction after journalists documented the incident with photos and videos, leading to allegations that the doctor threatened legal action against them. Both the nurse and the doctor later acknowledged the hospital's lack of essential medical supplies.

The incident has raised serious concerns about the state of healthcare services in the region. Local residents have urged authorities to take immediate steps to ensure the availability of medicines and improve overall medical infrastructure at the hospital.