Clash over illegal mining sparks chaos in Punjab’s Dera Bassi: Hospital attacked, doctors on strike

Senior Superintendent of Police Deepak Pareek launched an investigation into the clash and the illegal mining allegations that triggered the violence.

• Written by Jasbir Malhi
• Dera Bassi | Updated: April 12, 2025 05:30 PM IST
2 min read

Inside the hospital, chaos ensued when a stampede was triggered among patients and their attendants as the fight spilled into the facility. (Express Photo)

Violent clashes broke out between two groups over allegations of illegal mining in Makandpur village under Punjab’s Dera Bassi on Friday night. The clashes reportedly left at least six injured on both sides.

Initial skirmishes broke out in the village itself, resulting in four individuals sustaining injuries. However, soon after, both factions advanced toward the Civil Hospital. Inside the hospital, chaos ensued when a stampede was triggered among patients and their attendants as the fight spilled into the facility. Both sides attacked each other using medical equipment. Several people were reported injured in the hospital brawl.

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The situation was brought under control after the police force reached the hospital. “We managed to restore order after a series of intense clashes,” Mandeep Singh, Station House Officer of the local police station, said.

The situation was brought under control after the police force reached the hospital. (Express Photo)

Senior Superintendent of Police Deepak Pareek also reached the spot and launched an investigation into the clash and the illegal mining allegations that triggered the violence.

Sources said the presence of Udayvir Singh Dhillon, son of Congress constituency in-charge Deependra Singh Dhillon, and his support to one group intensified the already volatile situation.

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In response to the violence at the hospital, doctors at Dera Bassi Civil Hospital have gone on strike, seeking better security. At present, only emergency services remain operational at the hospital, causing significant disruption in routine medical care.