Malappuram (Kerala) | Four women were arrested on Friday for allegedly attacking a gynaecologist at a government hospital in Perinthalmanna, police said.

The doctor sustained serious injuries in the attack, which occurred on Thursday, they said, adding that she is undergoing treatment at a hospital.

Police said the attack was linked to the death of a woman who had recently visited the Perinthalmanna District Hospital for delivery.

However, the Kerala Government Medical Officers’ Association (KGMOA) said the young woman, who developed severe complications due to postpartum haemorrhage, was treated as per protocol without delay and was later referred to a better-equipped hospital.

Despite all possible efforts by doctors, her life could not be saved, the association said in a statement.

The association alleged that a group of individuals misrepresented what appeared to be a natural complication in childbirth as medical negligence, forcibly entered the doctor’s consultation room, and attacked her, causing serious injuries.

Strongly condemning “the brutal and premeditated attack on a gynaecologist,” the KGMOA demanded strict and exemplary punishment for those involved.

It said such acts of taking the law into one’s own hands, without understanding the scientific challenges in healthcare, are unacceptable and would affect the morale of health workers.

The association also said that over 50 government hospitals in the state that handle deliveries currently lack adequate staff.

Despite repeated demands to ensure proper facilities and human resources in these institutions, the issue has not been addressed seriously, it said.

To prevent such incidents in the future, the KGMOA said delivery centres must be strengthened as a long-term solution.

It called for the creation of posts for at least seven gynaecologists, seven paediatricians, and seven anaesthetists at each delivery centre to ensure 24-hour services.

The association also stressed the need for well-equipped operating theatres, blood banks, and other basic infrastructure at such centres.