Doctors 'abused', staffer slapped at Palghar hospital; Shiv Sena chief booked

Maharashtra police have charged 17 Shiv Sena workers for allegedly assaulting hospital staff at a Palghar facility over a disagreement concerning a medical bill of Rs 19,866 for a 19-year-old man who was injured during a Dahi Handi event. The incident occurred after the patient was admitted to the hospital around 8:30 pm Saturday after sustaining injuries while participating in Dahi Handi to celebrate Janmashtami.

Dispute erupted around 1:30 am Sunday when hospital staff demanded the patient's relatives to pay the remaining Rs 9,866 towards the bill that they had already paid Rs 10,000. An argument ensued after hospital authorities handed over the bill. According to police, Shiv Sena workers allegedly verbally abused the staff, with Palghar city chief Rahul Gharat allegedly slapping a male receptionist. A female staff member intervened, according to a police officer.

Following the incident, a case was registered against the 17 individuals, including Shiv Sena district chief Kundan Shankhe and Palghar city chief Rahul Gharat, under assault-related sections and the Medical Services Protection Act. Senior Inspector Kishor Manbhav stated that no property was damaged or lost. The accused group entered the emergency ward and allegedly argued with doctors and hospital staff about the treatment costs.

The staff asked them to settle the outstanding bill, which led to the group allegedly assaulting the hospital personnel. CCTV footage is being examined to gather evidence as the charges are bailable, and no arrests have been made yet.