Medical services at Rajshahi Medical College Hospital were severely disrupted after intern doctors began a 24-hour work stoppage on Tuesday morning. The protest was launched in response to repeated incidents of harassment against interns by patients’ relatives and the alleged lack of visible action against the perpetrators. The strike, which started at 9 a.m., has directly affected patient care across multiple wards.

According to the interns’ organization, three interns were assaulted over two consecutive days, prompting widespread anger and concern among medical staff. The protesting doctors are demanding immediate security measures, punishment for those responsible, and a safer work environment. They have also announced a one-hour human chain demonstration scheduled for Wednesday morning.

Hospital operations have been strained by the absence of interns, who handle a large portion of daily patient care. Other doctors are struggling to manage emergency cases, and routine checkups have slowed. Patients and their families have expressed frustration over the disruption, while observers warn that the situation could worsen if swift action is not taken.