In a shocking incident at Kalaignar Centenary Hospital in Chennai, a Tamil Nadu government doctor was stabbed seven times on Wednesday morning by a young man. The attacker, reportedly the son of a cancer patient being treated by the doctor, allegedly carried out the attack after suspecting the oncologist had prescribed incorrect medication to his mother.

The doctor, who is also a heart patient with a pacemaker, suffered injuries to his upper chest, forehead, back, and stomach. Despite the severe nature of his injuries, he is reported to be in stable condition and is currently being treated in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Health Minister Ma Subramanian confirmed that the doctor is receiving medical care and assured that he is recovering.

The assailant, aged 26, was caught immediately after the attack and handed over to the police. Despite using a small knife hidden on his person, the Health Minister stated that there was no security lapse at the hospital during the incident.

The attack, which took place in the outpatient department (OPD) of the hospital, has raised serious concerns about the safety of healthcare workers in India. In response, Chief Minister MK Stalin has ordered an inquiry into the matter, promising to take steps to ensure such incidents do not occur again. In a statement, he emphasized the importance of doctors' selfless service and the government's responsibility to protect their safety.

In solidarity with the injured colleague, doctors at the hospital have gone on strike, suspending non-emergency treatments as a form of protest. The incident is a stark reminder of the growing issue of violence against healthcare workers, which gained national attention following the rape and murder of a doctor at Kolkata's RG Kar Hospital earlier this year.

This latest attack has reignited discussions on the need for improved security measures in healthcare facilities across India to protect the doctors and medical staff who work tirelessly to care for patients.