Media Release

Mangaluru, Sep 2: There are disturbing reports from areas of protest and resistance that police entered hospitals and at least in one case the ICU. This is a new low in the civic life of the nation but not entirely unexpected given the impunity which violence is heaped on doctors and hospitals. However, the difference this time is that it is the establishment that has lost its restraint.

No violence is acceptable in a hospital. Hospitals are sacrosanct and are exempted even in a war zone. IMA has the legacy of taking on the west over the bombing of hospitals in Afghanistan. Violations by the Russian State have been flagged off by none other than the World Medical Association. What makes IMA react today is that disturbing reports of denial of access to medical care are emerging. This is unacceptable. Everyone has the right to access to medical care. The government and its establishment have no right to deny anyone their right to access. The visuals of a policeman violently opening an ICU door by stomping is a clear indication of the New Truth and the New Standards.

IMA stands up for retaining the hospital as safe zones. All violence is unacceptable especially those perpetrated by the state on people who require medical attention and care. Everyone should feel comfortable in the hands that heal. Indian doctors will never let down whoever requires care. No politics can dilute this resolve.