Sena Leader Suspended After Palghar Hospital Attack; Shinde Vows Strict Action

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Shiv Sena chief Eknath Shinde has taken swift action, suspending the party's Palghar city chief, Rahul Gharat, following his arrest in connection with an alleged assault on employees of a private hospital. The incident, which occurred a day prior, has drawn strong condemnation from Shinde, who declared that such acts would not be tolerated and warned of strict action against anyone found responsible.

The Palghar police produced Mr. Gharat before a local magistrate, who remanded him to police custody for a day as investigations continue. Sena corporator Ramesh Mhatre was arrested on July 6 for allegedly assaulting doctors at a Thane hospital.

The incident in Palghar unfolded after five 'govindas' involved in a Shiv Sena Dahi Handi celebration were admitted to Relief Hospital.

According to police, a dispute arose over a hospital bill totaling ₹19,000, of which ₹10,000 had been paid.

The situation escalated when party members reportedly refused to pay the remaining amount, demanding the release of a 19-year-old 'govinda' who doctors wanted to keep under observation.

This led to an argument and a subsequent alleged assault on the hospital staff. CCTV footage from the hospital purportedly shows one person, allegedly Mr. Gharat, slapping a receptionist.

However, the narrative has another side. Reports indicate that injured 'govindas' and their supporters have made counter-allegations against the hospital.

They claim staff removed IV lines from patients in the ICU, forced unnecessary scans, and prolonged ICU stays.

MLA Rajendra Gavit has even demanded an FIR be registered against the hospital's doctors, adding a layer of complexity to the incident. Police are currently looking for 17 other individuals against whom an FIR has been registered in connection with the assault.

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