DMCH clash halts services, patients stranded

A clash erupted on the evening of April 8 between doctors, Ansar personnel, and students of Dhaka University at Dhaka Medical College Hospital, leaving multiple people injured and forcing the suspension of emergency medical services.

Inspector Md Faruk, in-charge of the DMCH police outpost, confirmed the incident.

One injured student has been identified as Mahadi Hasan Sanim, a Botany student from DU’s 2023-24 session, who is currently receiving treatment at the Dhaka University Medical Centre. Several of his classmates were also reportedly hurt.

Eyewitness and DU student Faisal Ahmed Imon said the incident began when Sanim, feeling unwell after an exam, visited DMCH for treatment.

After consulting a doctor and receiving a prescription, he could not find the medicine at nearby pharmacies. When he returned to request a change in medication, an argument reportedly escalated, allegedly leading to doctors assaulting him.

According to Imon, other students who came to the scene were also confronted by doctors and Ansar personnel. Following the clash, DU students positioned themselves outside the hospital’s emergency department, while intern doctors stayed inside.

Emergency services remain suspended as of filing, and a meeting between the DMCH director and the Dhaka University proctor is underway to resolve the situation. Patients are reportedly facing delays in receiving urgent care.