India, April 2 -- Punjab health minister Dr Balbir Singh on Thursday ordered the immediate suspension of a contractual employee at Government Mata Kaushalya Hospital, Patiala, following an incident of violence. The action was prompted by a viral video showing the employee, Gurpreet Singh, allegedly punching and shattering a glass panel at the OPD registration counter on Wednesday. The shattered glass caused a woman patient to bleed profusely.

Taking note of the incident, the minister said that misbehaviour with patients in government hospitals would invite strict action. He described the conduct as reckless and said it could have endangered more lives. A departmental inquiry has been initiated, and the employee will be served a one-month...