BIRGUNJ, July 26: A hospital in Birgunj was vandalized and witnessed protests throughout Saturday after two patients died during treatment at different times.
Relatives of the deceased accused doctors of medical negligence, triggering demonstrations that escalated tensions at Narayani Hospital.
The situation was brought under control after authorities reached a five-point agreement, including a commitment to investigate the incidents and take action against those found responsible.
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According to Ashutosh Chaturvedi, ward chair of Birgunj Metropolitan City Ward No. 25, two doctors and three hospital staff members who were on duty during the treatment have been relieved of their responsibilities.
The agreement was reached during talks involving Parsa Assistant Chief District Officer Krishna Thapa, Narayani Hospital Medical Superintendent Dr Chitranjan Sah, Ward Chair Chaturvedi, security officials, and the victims' families.
Police said Rajkumar Patel of Birgunj Metropolitan City Ward No. 25 was admitted to Narayani Hospital on Saturday morning after complaining of chest pain.
Although he was reported to be in stable condition when admitted, doctors declared him dead at around 11:30 am, prompting angry relatives to accuse hospital staff of negligence.
The protesters vandalized hospital property and allegedly attempted to assault doctors. Police from Birta Ward Police Office used mild force to bring the situation under control.
In a separate incident, Rajesh Yadav of Sisahawa Bahuwari, Jagarnathpur Rural Municipality Ward No. 6 in Parsa, died at around 2:00 pm while undergoing treatment.
His relatives alleged that doctors failed to provide oxygen while transferring him from the medical ward to the intensive care unit, leading to his death. The protest turned violent, forcing Parsa Police to use batons to disperse the crowd.
The situation returned to normal after local authorities, hospital officials, elected representatives, and the victims' families signed a five-point agreement.
