On a quiet Monday evening, a disturbing video captured a Shiv Sena corporator, Ramesh Mhatre, and his aides assaulting two doctors at Shastri Nagar Hospital in Thane. The attack stemmed from a dispute over the transfer of a newborn to another facility, prompting the parents to seek political intervention.

Incident Details

The footage shows Mhatre slapping, punching, and striking Dr. Vaibhav Salunkhe and Dr. Srishti Baviskar with a register, while the female doctor suffered a hit to her hand. Both doctors were left with psychological trauma and, according to colleagues, felt compelled to resign from their positions.

Legal Response

Mhatre was arrested Wednesday night, and his aides were taken into custody a day earlier. KDMC Medical Health Officer Dr. Deepa Shukla confirmed that the resignations were submitted to the outsourcing agency, but official paperwork had yet to reach the department.

Political and Social Impact

The incident has raised serious concerns about safety for medical staff and the potential influence of politics on healthcare delivery in Thane. Families of the doctors fear future disruptions could jeopardise patient care.

Analysis

This episode exemplifies the misuse of political power and its corrosive effect on public institutions. Protecting healthcare professionals from such violence is essential to maintain trust and ensure uninterrupted patient services. Authorities must strengthen security protocols in civic-run hospitals to prevent recurrence.