A jackal’s unexpected visit to the surgical ward of SNMMCH government hospital in Dhanbad on November 19th night caused significant alarm among patients and staff. The incident, which saw the animal briefly present before fleeing when lights were turned on near the barricades, has ignited a discussion about the hospital’s security protocols. Fortunately, the situation was defused without any harm or attacks from the jackal.
Reacting to the episode, Health Minister Dr. Irfan Ansari emphasized that such wildlife incursions are beyond the direct control of hospital staff. He drew a parallel to common occurrences in rural areas, stating, ‘Snakes often appear in village hospitals; it’s beyond a doctor’s control.’ The minister questioned the scope of responsibility, asking, ‘If a tiger enters the hospital, is it my fault? Is the government responsible if a tiger enters the city?’ He reassured the public about the government’s dedication to enhancing healthcare infrastructure, announcing plans for a new, modern medical college hospital in Dhanbad. While SNMMCH’s current security and operational effectiveness are being reviewed, the minister has mandated swift action from the concerned authorities. His ongoing efforts focus on improving state-wide medical services through diligent oversight and reform. Furthermore, the establishment of a new super-specialty hospital and medical college in Dhanbad is advancing, set to deliver superior medical care and safety. The hospital administration has been directed to reinforce security and sanitation measures to avert any recurrence of such incidents.