Medical services, except emergency care, were hit hard across multiple hospitals in Himachal Pradesh as resident doctors launched an indefinite strike on Saturday, December 27, 2025. The strike followed the firing of Dr. Raghav Narula, who was dismissed for entering a physical fight with a patient at Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC). Patients and their families, especially those from far-off places, suffered due to the doctors’ absence. Krishan Singh Thakur, who traveled 125 kilometers from Ani to Shimla for treatment, said, "I came here on Thursday from Ani, which is about 125 kilometres from Shimla, for my father's treatment. But no doctors are available due to the strike and we are facing inconvenience." He added that harsh winter and lack of lodging due to holiday tourists made the situation worse. Another attendant, Dasvi Ram, said, "My wife is admitted in the hospital. Her MRI was to be conducted today, but not done yet as the strike has begun. We are waiting for the doctors to resume duty." The Resident Doctors' Association declared the strike on Friday after many doctors took casual leave. They stated that routine services, elective surgeries, and outpatient departments would be closed, while emergency care would continue. The trouble began after a video surfaced showing Dr. Narula punching a patient, Arjun Singh, who had been admitted for a bronchoscopy. The patient claimed the fight started because he objected to being called "tu" instead of "tum," which offended the doctor. Dr. Narula said Mr. Singh used abusive language and provoked the fight. An inquiry found fault on both sides but called Dr. Narula’s behavior "misconduct" and "acts unbecoming of a public servant," leading to his dismissal. Several medical associations, including the Himachal Medical Officers' Association, have backed Dr. Narula. They demand his reinstatement and a clear, fast, and fair inquiry. They also want strict action against those who created chaos at the hospital. The Resident Doctors' Association met Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Friday. The CM promised to act against those who threatened doctors and to set new rules to secure hospital safety. Despite this, the doctors began their strike, insisting the termination order must be withdrawn. The strike continues to disrupt patient care amid the pressing winter cold and increasing holiday travel in the region.