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Ludhiana, July 31, 2025: Nearly a year after the Punjab government pledged to provide round-the-clock security for doctors at government medical colleges and hospitals, doctors across the state have issued an ultimatum: deploy promised security personnel by August 19, or face renewed protests.
The Punjab Civil Medical Services Association (PCSMA) has accused the state of failing to deliver on its September 2024 assurance to safeguard healthcare workers by posting security at government hospitals. According to the association, the delay primarily stems from hesitance within the Finance Department, despite a written commitment from Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema.
PCSMA representatives recently met Health Secretary Kumal Rahul following a new appeal for urgent action. Their letter underscored a surge in violence against doctors and medical staff at public health facilities, with at least 60 serious incidents reported statewide over the past year. Districts including Amritsar, Pathankot, Hoshiarpur, Kapurthala, Ludhiana, and Muktsar were among those recording the highest number of cases. The association claims the environment, especially for women doctors on rural night duty, has become increasingly hazardous.
Among highlighted incidents was a violent attack at Talwandi Sabo Sub-Divisional Hospital, where a staff member was gravely injured, as well as gunshots fired inside the emergency ward at Kartarpur Community Health Centre in June 2025. Similar violent outbreaks forced staff in Sultanpur Lodhi and other locations to seek safety behind locked doors.
PCSMA president Dr. Akhil Sarin voiced frustration over the year-long wait, urging the administration not to force further disruption by delaying action. “Incidents of extreme violence have shaken the cadre to the core, but we are still performing our duties with utmost dedication. It is high time for the government to fulfill its promise and provide adequate security to healthcare staff,” Dr. Sarin said.
A senior health official revealed the government’s initial plan to secure 23 district hospitals, with security at sub-divisional hospitals and CHCs set to follow. Delays trace back to lack of approval from the finance department, but further discussions are scheduled to resolve the stalemate.
PCSMA has scheduled a general body meeting for August 17 to decide on further actions if their demands remain unmet.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is based on information sourced from Medical Dialogues as of July 31, 2025. For the most current developments and official positions, please refer to state government or PCSMA updates directly.
