Shimla doctor sacked after shocking video shows him assaulting patient

The state government decided to sack him after examining the findings of an inquiry into the incident. An FIR has been registered by Shimla police against the doctor, identified as Dr Raghav Nirula, following a complaint by the patient.

The incident occurred on December 22 at the Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC) in Shimla.

The complainant, Arjun Singh, 36, said he was undergoing treatment for a lung infection and was admitted to the pulmonary block due to breathing difficulties and low oxygen levels.

According to Singh, the assault took place during a routine round when Dr Nirula questioned him about his admission and medical documents.

Singh alleged that because of his medical condition and oxygen shortage, he was unable to respond properly, which led to an argument over the doctor’s behaviour.

Singh accused the doctor of becoming “aggressive and threatening” before repeatedly punching and kicking him while he was on the bed.

He claimed he suffered injuries to his face and body, with bleeding from his nose and mouth. Singh further alleged that another doctor held his legs during the assault, preventing him from defending himself.

The patient said the oxygen pipe attached to him broke during the attack, putting his life at risk. The video of the incident was recorded by Singh’s brother and later circulated widely, triggering public outrage.

Following the incident, Singh dialled the emergency number 112, after which a police team reached the hospital. Police have registered a case against Dr Nirula and another unidentified doctor who is alleged to have assisted in the assault.

In an official order, the Himachal Pradesh Directorate of Medical Education and Research said, “The undersigned do hereby terminate the services of Dr Raghav Nirula from the post of Senior Resident, Department of Pulmonary Medicine, IGMC Shimla.”

Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Singh, wearing an oxygen mask, thanked the state government for taking swift action.

“I would like to express my thanks to the government for taking this exemplary step. It will set an example,” he said.

The investigation into the incident is ongoing.