Interns at Sylhet Osmani Medical College and Hospital (OMCH) continued their strike for the second consecutive day on Sunday, causing immense suffering to the patients.
The interns of the OMCH went on strike on Saturday morning protesting the attack on a female intern allegedly by the relatives of a patient.
Many patients in the outpatient department reported waiting for long hours without being able to see a doctor.
Although treatment is being provided at the emergency department, patients complained of delays compared to normal times.
Several attendants said they had come from distant areas and were forced to wait for hours.
Many returned home disappointed without receiving necessary tests or primary treatment.
Intern doctors said they went on a strike to press home several demands.
The authorities of the hospital said discussions are ongoing with the higher authorities to bring the situation back to normal.
Mizanur Rahman, an intern of the hospital, said their strike is still ongoing. “The hospital administration has not yet assured us of increased security or clarified what level of force will be deployed to ensure our safety while providing treatment,” he said.
Another meeting is scheduled to be held with the administration on Sunday, he added.
Meanwhile, a general diary (GD) was lodged with Kotwali Police Station over the attack on the female intern, said Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Sylhet Kotwali Police Station Moinul Zakir.
Besides, a five-member committee was formed to look into the incident.
Hospital Director Brigadier General Umar Rashed Munir said, “Ensuring the safety of doctors and staff is our top priority. Since the incident, all necessary measures have been taken to maintain peace in and around the hospital.”