Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (JD)

Udupi, Sep 15: A group of health workers were allegedly abused and subjected to attempted assault at Bellampalli village of Hiriadka here on Tuesday September 15.

A team of health officials had visited the residence of a person identified as Surendra to collect swab for coronavirus test. His wife had tested positive earlier and another test was supposed to be conducted on Tuesday.

When the health officials including junior women's health assistant Vasanthi S, lab technician Jyothi Kiran, and car driver Santhosh and two other health officials had visited Surendra's house to collect his swab. However, Surendra questioned their presence and raised objections to swab testing.

According to the complaint filed by Vasanthi, the accused even threatened and tried to assault the health officials. Surendra allegedly wielded a steel rod at the health officials. It is said that he accused the health department of giving false reports and making money.

A two-wheeler belonging to Vasanthi was allegedly damaged by the accused. He even allegedly threatened to kill the health officials.

A complaint has been filed by Vasanthi in the Hiriadka police station.

Speaking to daijiworld, Vasanthi said, "We request the deputy commissioner to henceforth provide us police security to protect ourselves from these types of attacks. I have never experienced such things before. We are really working hard in this pandemic risking our lives. But some people are showing negligence towards our duty. We are under stress due to additional duties. We are doing it as a service to society. If such incidents recur, how can we do our duty? It is a serious issue and the district administration has to take action against the accused."