The student wing of Indian Medical Association boycotted the OPD (outpatient department) service at Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Bariatu from 9am to 2.30pm on Friday to protest against the National Medical Commission Bill, inconveniencing a large number of patients.

When The Telegraph visited RIMS around 11 in the morning, 50 patients from outside the city, were either helplessly lying on the floor outside the OPD or leaving the hospital campus.

“I had come from Chatra for the treatment of my lung infection. I reached the city yesterday (Sunday) evening and came to the OPD today (Monday) morning only to find that there was no doctor,” Laxman Das said.

Bhawani Yadav (65), who had come from Dumka, also had to suffer.

“My left leg is paralysed. I came from Dumka to seek medical advice from the doctors here, but they were seen agitating with placards in their hands,” Yadav said.

Sarita Devi from Bokaro, who has a neurological problem and is not able to walk properly, was seen returning from the RIMS campus.

“I had come to show my MRI report to the doctors here. Now, I will have to stay in a hotel and come back again tomorrow (Tuesday),’ Devi said.

RIMS head Manish Kumar said the strike was in the interest of the patients.

“The National Medical Commission Bill seeks to end the modern and scientific medical system. If this happens, patients will be the worst sufferer. Temporary pain they are suffering now will give permanent relief,” Kumar said.

Dr Ajit Kumar, president of RIMS Junior Doctors’ Association, said the boycott was called off in the afternoon.

“The OPD services went back to normal after 2.30pm. During the boycott, emergency and indoor services remained unaffected,” Kumar said.

He said the protest would continue. “On August 8, doctors of modern medicines will strike work and medical services will be affected,” he added.