Tensions flared in Aziz Bhatti Shaheed Hospital as the standoff between the District Coordination Officer (DCO), Safdar Hussain Warraich, and the doctors’ community intensified over the issue of hospital privatisation, reported 24NewsHD TV channel on Sunday.
The protesting doctors shut down the OPD of the hospital, severely affecting healthcare delivery and leaving hundreds of patients in distress and without treatment.
During a polio awareness rally led by DCO Safdar Hussain at the hospital, doctors erupted into intense protest against the Punjab government’s privatisation plans for public hospitals.
Doctors surrounded the DCO and held a vociferous demonstration right inside the hospital premises. Chanting powerful slogans such as “Nijkari ka jo yaar hai, woh ghaddar hai!” and “Jeena hoga, marna hoga—dharna hoga”.
According to sources, the situation escalated when the doctors encircled DCO Safdar Hussain, forcing him to retreat. He eventually left the hospital premises in his vehicle amid the protest.
In response to the unrest, a heavy contingent of police reached the hospital and was deployed to maintain order, as heated exchanges were reported between doctors and police officials.
Hospital operations remain partially suspended, and the patients continue to suffer as a result of the ongoing deadlock.
The doctors’ community has vowed to continue their protest until the government withdraws plans for hospital privatisation.
Reporter: Rana Shehzad