A Tamil Nadu government doctor was stabbed seven times by the son of a cancer patient at a Chennai hospital on Wednesday morning. The attack occurred at the Kalaignar Centenary Hospital in the city’s Guindy area, where the doctor, an oncologist, had been treating the man’s mother for cancer. The young man, who was also a patient attendant at the hospital, attacked the doctor in the OPD after suspecting that incorrect medication had been prescribed to his mother.

The 26-year-old attacker used a small knife and stabbed the doctor multiple times, injuring him in the upper chest, head, and stomach. The doctor, who also suffers from heart disease and has a pacemaker, was rushed to the ICU but is reported to be in stable condition, according to Health Minister Ma Subramanian. The injuries included cuts to his forehead, back, and behind his ear.

The accused attempted to flee but was apprehended and handed over to the police. The Health Minister emphasized that there were no security lapses at the hospital during the incident.

Chief Minister MK Stalin has called for an inquiry into the attack and assured that medical aid would be provided. He also promised measures to prevent such incidents in the future, acknowledging the importance of protecting healthcare workers. “The selfless work of government doctors is immeasurable, and it is our responsibility to ensure their safety,” Stalin said in a statement.

The attack highlights the ongoing concern over the safety of healthcare professionals, an issue that gained national attention following the tragic rape and murder of a doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Hospital.