Panic erupted at SNMMCH government hospital in Dhanbad on the night of November 19th when a jackal entered the surgical ward. Patients and staff were alarmed by the unexpected intrusion. Following the sighting near the barricading, patients requested lights to be turned on, causing the animal to flee swiftly. This incident has raised serious questions about the hospital’s security measures. Fortunately, the jackal did not attack anyone, and no injuries were reported.
In response to the event, Jharkhand Health Minister Dr. Irfan Ansari commented on the situation, stating that the hospital or doctors are not at fault if a jackal enters the premises. He drew parallels, mentioning that snakes and other wildlife are common in rural hospital settings and are beyond the control of medical staff. The minister questioned accountability, asking, ‘If a tiger enters the hospital, is it my fault? Is it the government’s fault if a tiger enters the city?’ He assured that the state government is committed to improving healthcare infrastructure and will soon provide Dhanbad with an advanced medical college hospital. While SNMMCH’s current security and operational standards are under scrutiny, the minister has directed officials to implement prompt solutions. Efforts are underway to enhance medical services statewide, with the minister actively conducting inspections and overseeing improvement initiatives. The construction of a new medical college and super-specialty hospital in Dhanbad is also in progress, promising enhanced healthcare and safety for residents in the future. Hospital administration has been instructed to prevent such occurrences and maintain strict vigilance on sanitation and security protocols.