Malkangiri, Jun 18: police arrested six persons, including the brother of a pregnant woman who died during treatment for a suspected snakebite, in connection with the assault on a doctor at the Malkangiri District Headquarters Hospital.

Six Relatives Arrested
According to police, six relatives of the deceased woman were arrested and produced before a court on Thursday for allegedly attacking Dr Sidhant Adarsh, who was on duty at the hospital when the incident took place.

The arrests come a day after the assault triggered widespread condemnation from the medical fraternity and prompted the Odisha Medical Services Association (OMSA) to warn of protests if action was not taken against those involved.

Doctor Attacked After Patient's Death
The incident occurred after the death of 29-year-old Bandana Mondal from MV-43 village under Malkangiri block. The seven-month-pregnant woman had been admitted to the district headquarters hospital late Tuesday night after a suspected snakebite.

Family members alleged negligence in treatment and accused the doctor of not administering anti-snake venom immediately. Following her death on Wednesday, some relatives and villagers allegedly assaulted Dr Sidhant on the hospital premises.

Also Read: Man Offers Lift To Woman, Later Attempts To 'Rape' Her In Odisha's Balasore

Police personnel rushed to the hospital and rescued the doctor from the mob.

Afterwards, Malkangiri police registered a case based on a complaint filed by Dr Sidhant and launched an investigation into the incident.

Probe Continues
Hospital authorities stated that a detailed inquiry will ascertain the facts related to the treatment provided to the deceased woman, while police continue to examine all aspects of the case.