KATHMANDU: The Ministry of Health and Food Hygiene has expressed deep sorrow over the vandalism and attack on doctors at Narayani Hospital in Birgunj following the death of a patient during treatment.

The ministry also reiterated that it maintains a ‘zero tolerance’ policy toward such incidents.

In a press release issued on Monday by the ministry’s Joint Spokesperson, Dr. Samir Kumar Adhikari, tribute was paid to the patient who lost their life in the incident, and heartfelt condolences were extended to the bereaved family.

Additionally, the ministry noted its serious concern regarding the attack on the doctors and healthcare workers involved in the treatment.

The ministry stated that existing legal provisions are in place to investigate any untoward incidents occurring during treatment, clarifying that taking the law into one’s own hands to attack doctors and healthcare workers is unacceptable under any circumstances.

The statement noted that it is the government’s responsibility to ensure an environment where doctors and health personnel can deliver services fearlessly, safely, and with high morale.

It urged the hospital management, local administration, and security agencies to identify those responsible for the incident and take legal action against them.

The ministry urged doctors and healthcare workers across all hospitals to continue providing uninterrupted services, while also appealing to the public to support efforts aimed at improving the hospital service system.