Seven Shiv Sena Officials Arrested in Palghar Hospital Assault Case, One Still at Large

Palghar, September 13 (Daily Kiran) : Authorities in Palghar have arrested seven officials from the Shiv Sena party in connection with an assault on hospital staff at the Relief Hospital. Among those detained is Kundan Sankhe, the district president of Shiv Sena. One other suspect remains at large, prompting an ongoing search by local police.

The incident is part of a larger case involving 22 individuals. Prior to these arrests, 14 suspects had already been taken into custody, leaving eight still wanted. With the latest arrests, the total number of apprehended suspects has risen to 21.

The altercation reportedly began when five members of a local “Govinda” group, injured during the Dahi Handi festival, were brought to the hospital for treatment. While three of the patients received outpatient care, two were admitted due to serious head and spine injuries. One patient, 19-year-old Omkar Kalwadkar, was placed under observation in the ICU after suffering a head injury and losing consciousness.

According to hospital management, tensions escalated when local political activists questioned the need for CT scans and MRIs, demanding the discharge of patients without settling outstanding medical bills. Vishal Godgikar, the hospital director, stated that despite offering a 20% discount on a bill totaling approximately ₹19,866, the individuals involved refused to pay and became aggressive.

CCTV footage from the hospital allegedly shows some individuals entering restricted areas and behaving aggressively towards the on-duty doctor. They reportedly threatened the hospital staff and assaulted a billing receptionist, Vivek Babulinga, who attempted to intervene.

Following the chaos, some individuals entered the ICU, intimidated staff, and removed a patient from medical supervision without proper authorization. In response to the hospital’s complaint, the Palghar police filed a case under various sections of the Indian Penal Code and laws protecting medical services and staff.

The FIR names several individuals, including Shiv Sena’s district chief Kundan Sankhe, city chief Rahul Gharat, and local MLA Rajendra Gavit’s son, Rohit Gavit. Subsequently, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde suspended Rahul Gharat from the party.