Intern doctors at Sir Salimullah Medical College’s (Mitford Hospital) on Sunday declared a two-day strike, suspending all services except emergency care, citing ongoing safety threats, intrusion by outsiders, and the disruptive impact of political activities that have created an atmosphere of fear and insecurity.

The decision was made at an emergency meeting of the Intern Doctors Society (IDS) in the evening, and was communicated through a press release later that night.

Although some temporary security measures have been introduced, the hospital premises remain unsafe for intern doctors.

IDS emphasized that they do not intend to harm patients and will keep emergency services operational. However, they say providing routine medical care under the current unsafe conditions is impossible. The strike will continue in phases until their demands are met.

The protest follows a one-day strike by the interns on July 11, protesting against the lack of security. On the same day, students organized a human chain, presenting three demands: identification and action against extortionists and outsiders, enhanced campus security, and a permanent administrative solution.

The combined movement of students and doctors has significantly disrupted normal hospital and college operations. Despite this, the college administration and hospital management have yet to issue any formal statements.

Protesters warn that without a change in the administration’s approach, the movement will escalate, potentially leading to a major breakdown in healthcare services.