NEW DELHI / SHIMLA: A major controversy has erupted in Himachal Pradesh after a viral video showed a doctor repeatedly assaulting a patient inside the Indira Gandhi Medical College and Hospital (IGMC) in Shimla, prompting sharp public outrage, protests and political reactions.
What Happened?
A mobile phone clip circulated widely on social media shows 31‑year‑old Dr. Raghav Narula, a senior resident in the pulmonary medicine department, allegedly punching 36‑year‑old patient Arjun Singh — who was resting on a hospital bed after a medical procedure — and engaging in a physical confrontation with him. The video also shows another doctor trying to restrain Dr. Narula and the patient attempting to defend himself. The Times of India+1
The altercation reportedly began on December 22, 2025, after an argument over the doctor’s choice of words — the patient objected to being addressed informally — which quickly escalated into a physical confrontation. The Indian Express
Immediate Action and Suspension
Following the viral spread of the footage, hospital authorities suspended Dr. Narula and ordered a high‑level inquiry into the incident. A formal FIR has also been registered by the patient’s attendants against the doctor. The Economic Times+1
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu directed officials to complete the probe swiftly. The inquiry committee was tasked with submitting its findings within a short deadline, and based on that investigation, Dr. Narula’s services were terminated from his senior residency under relevant medical conduct policies. The Times of India
Political and Public Reaction
The incident sparked protests at the IGMC campus, with relatives of the patient and others demanding strict action. Local BJP legislators and political leaders condemned the assault, calling the doctor’s conduct “unacceptable” and urging criminal charges. Hindustan Times
Conversely, some medical associations and resident doctors expressed concern about pressure on healthcare workers and called for a balanced and transparent investigation, highlighting that the viral video captured only part of the clash and that both parties may have contributed to the escalation. NewsDrum
Government Response
Himachal Pradesh Health Minister Dhani Ram Shandil described the episode as “unfortunate and unimaginable” for a premier health institution and reaffirmed that misconduct by medical professionals would not be tolerated. Authorities said they are examining all angles including eyewitness accounts and video evidence to ensure fair action. The Indian Express
Ongoing Inquiry and Broader Debate
The controversy has ignited a broader debate on patient‑doctor conduct, hospital discipline and professional accountability. While the doctor’s removal signals administrative seriousness, questions remain about workplace pressures on medical staff, patient grievances and communication protocols in healthcare settings, and the appropriate response to violence in hospitals.
The police investigation continues while the inquiry committee’s detailed findings are awaited, which may determine further legal or disciplinary action on either side. The Week