Cuttack: A 34-year-old patient undergoing treatment at the mental health department of SCB Medical College and Hospital died on Wednesday, with his family alleging that he succumbed to his injuries after he was assaulted by hospital staff, including security personnel.The deceased, Srikanta Das of Jajpur district, was admitted to the hospital on Monday after he fell ill. He died at around 4 pm on Wednesday while undergoing treatment.“My brother was beaten mercilessly. There are injury marks all over his body, including his hands, legs, head and ears. We have photographs of the injuries as evidence,” Srikanta’s younger brother Binod alleged, claiming that five hospital staff, including security guards, were involved.“Hospital authorities informed me around 4 am that my brother was not moving. When I checked, he had no pulse. He was beaten to death. Those responsible should be suspended and criminal proceedings initiated against them. We came here for treatment, but received his body instead,” Binod said.The family has raised questions over the circumstances surrounding Srikanta’s injuries and alleged negligence in his treatment and handling at the hospital. They have demanded a thorough investigation into the incident.Following a complaint by the family, Mangalabag police registered a case and launched an investigation into the circumstances leading to the patient’s injuries and death.Deputy commissioner of police Khilari Rishikesh Dnyandeo said, “The circumstances leading to the death are being examined and appropriate action will be taken based on the findings.”SCB Medical College and Hospital superintendent Jyotish Choudhury said the institution would fully cooperate with the investigation. “Since a police case has already been lodged, the matter will be investigated by the police. We will extend all necessary cooperation and provide any information required. As the allegations are criminal in nature, police will conduct the investigation,” Choudhury said.