Chandigarh, June 10: A major controversy has erupted in Haryana after nursing staff across the state launched protests against remarks allegedly made by Haryana State Women Commission Chairperson Renu Bhatia during her visit to Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Civil Hospital in Kurukshetra. The issue stems from a sensitive case involving the alleged sexual assault of a 15-year-old girl by a 62-year-old consultant doctor at the hospital, who was subsequently arrested under relevant legal provisions.
Following the incident, Renu Bhatia visited the hospital to review the case and examine possible lapses in patient safety. During the visit, she reportedly criticized hospital officials and nursing staff for negligence and suggested that action could be taken against those found responsible. Videos of the interaction soon circulated on social media, sparking outrage among nurses who claimed they were unfairly blamed for an incident in which they had no direct involvement.
The protest began at the Kurukshetra hospital, where nurses observed a two-hour pen-down strike. It quickly spread to multiple districts, including Gurugram, Faridabad, Nuh, Palwal, Sonipat, and Karnal. Nursing associations demanded a public apology, alleging that the remarks had damaged the image and morale of the profession. Several healthcare employee organizations, including pharmacists and laboratory technicians, also extended support to the agitation.
Despite the protests, emergency services, ICUs, labour rooms, and critical patient care remained operational, ensuring that patients were not seriously affected. Nursing unions also submitted memorandums to Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini seeking intervention in the matter. Meanwhile, Bhatia defended her actions, stating that her focus was ensuring accountability and justice for the minor victim. Amid growing pressure, reports indicate that she has submitted her resignation, though the government has yet to take a final decision.
The controversy has now become one of Haryana’s most discussed administrative issues, highlighting the tension between accountability in public institutions and the concerns of healthcare workers regarding professional dignity and respect.
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