Sat Dec 27 07:08:42 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the article, followed by a rewritten news article:
Summary:
Medical services in Himachal Pradesh are severely disrupted as resident doctors across the state have launched an indefinite strike. The strike was triggered by the termination of Dr. Raghav Narula after he was involved in a physical altercation with a patient, Arjun Singh. The incident, which took place at Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC) in Shimla, stemmed from a disagreement over language and escalated into a physical fight. While an inquiry found both parties at fault, the government terminated Dr. Narula’s services. The Resident Doctors’ Association, along with other medical organizations, is demanding his reinstatement and a transparent investigation, citing concerns for doctor safety. Patients are facing significant hardship due to the strike, especially those from remote areas, with the winter conditions and tourist influx exacerbating the situation.
News Article:
Himachal Pradesh Hospitals Crippled as Doctors Strike Over Fired Colleague
Shimla, December 27, 2025 – Medical services in Himachal Pradesh are facing severe disruptions as resident doctors across the state have initiated an indefinite strike, leaving patients stranded and healthcare facilities struggling to function. The strike, which began Saturday, stems from the termination of Dr. Raghav Narula, a doctor at Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC) in Shimla, following a physical altercation with a patient.
The incident occurred earlier this week after a heated argument between Dr. Narula and Arjun Singh, who was at IGMC for a bronchoscopy. A video of the confrontation, which surfaced online, showed Dr. Narula striking the patient. The hospital administration terminated Dr. Narula’s services citing misconduct.
The Resident Doctors’ Association (RDA) has condemned the termination and launched a widespread strike, with routine services, elective surgeries, and outpatient departments closed down. Only emergency services are being maintained.
“We are demanding a transparent and impartial investigation into the incident and the immediate reinstatement of Dr. Narula,” stated a spokesperson for the RDA. “We also require assurances for the safety and security of doctors in hospitals.”
The strike is having a devastating impact on patients, particularly those traveling from remote areas of the state. Krishan Singh Thakur, who traveled 125 kilometers from Ani for his father’s treatment, expressed his frustration, “We are facing immense inconvenience as no doctors are available due to the strike.”
The winter season and the influx of tourists for New Year’s celebrations have compounded the difficulties, leaving patients with limited accommodation options.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu met with representatives of the Resident Doctors’ Association on Friday, promising action against those who allegedly threatened Dr. Narula and new guidelines to improve doctor safety. However, the doctors proceeded with the strike, maintaining their demand for the revocation of Dr. Narula’s termination order.
The situation remains tense, and with no immediate resolution in sight, patients are bearing the brunt of the ongoing dispute. The Himachal Pradesh government is under increasing pressure to find a solution and restore normal medical services.
First Piper 