Indian Medical Association (IMA) has expressed deep concern and disappointment over recent incidents of harassment faced by doctors at Goa Medical College and Hazaribagh Government Medical College, allegedly at the hands of political leaders.

The apex medical body strongly condemned the actions, calling them a grave affront to the dignity of the medical fraternity and a threat to the integrity of India’s healthcare system.

In a strongly worded statement, the IMA said such incidents not only demonstrate blatant disrespect toward doctors but also create an atmosphere of fear, mistrust, and demoralization within the healthcare sector.

“Medicine has always been a noble profession rooted in compassion, ethics, and an unwavering commitment to patient care. While we continue to prioritize our patients, it is vital that doctors are treated with dignity and afforded due process,” the statement read.

The association expressed particular dismay that the misconduct came from elected representatives, individuals tasked with safeguarding justice and upholding the rule of law.

"It is especially shameful when lawmakers themselves engage in behavior that undermines the very values they are sworn to protect. This sets a dangerous precedent and risks eroding public confidence in both governance and healthcare,” the IMA said.

Highlighting the urgent need for legal reforms, the IMA reiterated its demand for violence or harassment against medical professionals to be treated as a non-bailable offense, carrying a minimum punishment of seven years' imprisonment.

Though many states have already enacted the Medicare Service Personnel and Medicare Service Institutions (Prevention of Violence and Damage to Property) Act, the association urged authorities to further strengthen and uniformly implement these laws.

The IMA also called on the government to strictly enforce the recommendations of the National Task Force appointed by the Supreme Court, which provides guidelines to ensure the protection and welfare of resident doctors and healthcare workers.

“As doctors, we will never compromise on our dignity. We remain committed to our Hippocratic Oath and the service of humanity—even in the most challenging circumstances. But we expect our service to be met with respect, safety, and justice,” the IMA concluded.

The association’s strong stance comes at a time when increasing reports of violence and intimidation against healthcare workers have raised alarm bells across the country, prompting urgent calls for systemic reform and greater accountability.