A violent altercation between a group accompanying a patient and hospital staff at Menikhinna Regional Hospital has resulted in ten individuals, including the District Medical Officer, sustaining injuries. The injured parties have been admitted to Peradeniya and Menikhinna Hospitals for medical treatment.
According to hospital sources, the injured District Medical Officer and four hospital staff members are receiving treatment at Menikhinna Hospital, while the six individuals accompanying the patient are being treated at Peradeniya Hospital.
The incident, which unfolded at approximately 6:40 pm yesterday (29), stemmed from a group bringing a patient to Menikhinna Hospital for treatment after he inadvertently washed his face with gasoline instead of water during a New Year festival in the Digana area, causing severe inflammation in his eyes.
On the same evening, hospital staff were reportedly engaged in an anniversary celebration within the hospital premises. Tensions arose when the patient arrived for treatment, with both hospital staff and the District Medical Officer wearing identical T-shirts.
Allegations surfaced from the group accompanying the patient at Peradeniya Hospital, accusing hospital staff of inebriation and instigating the violence by attacking them with iron rods and stone sticks. They claim the hospital staff brutally assaulted the patient, who was already in distress due to the petrol in his eyes.
Medical officer in charge of Menikhinna Hospital, W.C.K. Weerapana, acknowledged the anniversary celebration at the hospital but denied claims of intoxication among staff members. He confirmed damages to five vehicles parked in the hospital premises, including the patient’s threewheeler and a nearby private car.
Investigations led by Menikhinna Police Station Chief Inspector M.D. Chandrapala are underway, with statements being recorded from both parties involved. However, no arrests have been made thus far.
In response to the incident, a special investigation has been initiated under the guidance of Kandy District Regional Health Services Director Senaka Talagala. The clash resulted in damage to hospital property, including wheelchairs, doors, and windows.
