In a shocking incident at Chennai’s Kalaignar Centenary Super Specialty Hospital, Dr Balaji, an oncologist at the government facility, was stabbed seven times by Vignesh, son of a former patient, on Wednesday. The attack left the medical community and local authorities reeling.

Dr. Balaji is currently receiving treatment for his injuries, while Vignesh, a resident of Chennai, has been arrested by the police. His mother, who has cancer, was previously hospitalized but is now receiving treatment in a private facility.

According to reports, Vignesh confronted Dr Balaji in the cancer ward on Sunday, where he launched the unprovoked attack with a knife, as he accused the doctor of giving his mother the wrong medicine. After the attack, Vignesh tried to flee but was quickly caught and handed over to law enforcement.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MP Stalin expressed shock over the incident, stressing the need for thorough investigations and proper medical attention for Dr Balaji.

“It is shocking that Dr. Balaji, who works selflessly at the hospital, was attacked by a family member of a patient. I have given instructions to give him all necessary medical treatment and a thorough investigation into the matter,” he said in a post on X.

Stalin further emphasized the invaluable contributions of government doctors and reiterated the government’s commitment to ensure their safety. “It is our duty to protect those who are dedicated to treating patients,” he added.

Deputy Chief Minister Udayanidhi Stalin addressed the circumstances surrounding the attack, suggesting that Vignesh was misled by doctors at the private hospital where his mother is currently being treated. “He had a conversation with Dr. Balaji for 30 minutes before the incident occurred,” he noted, pointing to a possible misunderstanding that may have contributed to the attack.

State Health Minister Ma Subramanian assured the public of swift action, confirming that two people had already been arrested and promising further investigations.

In a critical response, state BJP chief K Annamalai condemned the ruling DMK government for its perceived inaction on attacks on health professionals. “Despite numerous attacks on doctors and hospital staff, the government has failed to take decisive action. This raises serious concerns about public safety,” he noted.

This incident comes amid growing calls from medical professionals in India for improved hospital security measures and stricter laws to protect healthcare workers. The demand for greater protections has intensified in the wake of recent violent incidents, including the tragic case of a trainee doctor who was raped and killed in a government hospital in Kolkata.