Bhopal: A horrifying murder inside a district hospital in Narsinghpur, Madhya Pradesh, has triggered public outrage and calls for stronger institutional security after 17-year-old Sandhya Chaudhary was stabbed to death by a man alleged to be her former lover.

The attack occurred in broad daylight on 27 June 2025, in full view of hospital staff, attendants, and patients—none of whom intervened, reportedly due to threats issued by the attacker.

CCTV footage from the hospital’s Trauma Centre shows the accused, 22-year-old Abhishek Koshti, confronting Sandhya outside room number 22. After a short conversation, he drew a knife and slashed her throat. Despite the presence of security guards and hospital personnel, no immediate action was taken to stop him. He fled the scene on a motorcycle after making a failed attempt to harm himself.

According to police, Koshti had been frequenting the hospital since noon and approached Sandhya when he spotted her visiting a friend admitted in the maternity ward. She had taken a seat outside the Trauma Centre when the attack occurred. A nurse who witnessed the incident said she was threatened by the attacker and warned not to interfere or she would be killed.

Sandhya died at the scene due to severe blood loss. Her body reportedly remained unattended for hours as investigators and forensic teams processed the area. Public anger intensified after videos circulated showing the inaction of onlookers and security lapses within the hospital premises.

Local authorities confirmed that Koshti was arrested within an hour of the incident. During initial questioning, he admitted to planning the murder, claiming he suspected Sandhya of being unfaithful. The two had reportedly been in contact through social media for over two years.

The brutal killing has raised critical concerns about safety in public healthcare facilities, particularly the ability of security staff to prevent or respond to emergencies. At the time of the incident, two guards were posted at the Trauma Centre, yet the attacker managed to escape without resistance.

Following the murder, panic spread through the hospital, with some patients opting for early discharge. Sandhya's family staged a protest, demanding immediate justice and improved security in hospitals. The protest ended after senior police officials assured a comprehensive investigation.

The incident has reignited national debates around women’s safety in public spaces, the responsibilities of bystanders, and the urgent need for hospital security reform. Advocacy groups are now calling for stricter surveillance, mandatory panic alert systems in public institutions, and training for staff to respond to violent threats.