IMA calls off symbolic 'Black Day' protest after meeting & reassurance from Amit Shah

Indian Medical Association (IMA) has called off symbolic 'Black Day' protest that was planned for Thursday, in view of being re-assured by Home Minister Amit Shah over its concerns at a video conference held just a few hours earlier, in which Health Minister Dr. Harsh Vardhan was also present.

Home Minister Amit Shah along with Health Minister Harsh Vardhan interacted with doctors and representatives of Indian Medical Association (IMA) through video conferencing. After meeting, Shah took to Twitter and sent out a strong mess for safety of doctors. Home Minister also urged Indian citizens to cooperate with doctors in this fight against COVID-19.

'Appealed to reconsider ir proposed protest'

Amit Shah praising doctors said that  way our doctors are performing ir duties in se testing times is "exceptional."

"Safety and dignity of our doctors at ir workplace are n-negotiable. It is our collective responsibility to ensure a conducive atmosphere for m at all times. I have assured doctors that Modi govt is committed to ir cause and appealed to reconsider ir proposed protest," Home Minister said. 

IMA on Monday had anunced that it would observe April 23 as Black Day if government fails to enact Central Law on violence against doctors and hospitals. "If government fails to enact Central Law on violence against doctors and hospitals even after White Alert, IMA will declare Black Day on April 23," read a tice issued by association.

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"Our legitimate needs for safe workplaces have to be met. Abuse and violence should stop immediately. White Alert to nation - All doctors and hospitals to light a candle at 9 pm on 22 April, as protest and vigil," it furr read. tice stated that furr decisions would be taken if government fails to take suitable steps. This comes after several incidents of attacks and stigmatisation of medical staff and doctors being reported from across country following outbreak of COVID-19 crisis.

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With 1383 new cases and 50 deaths reported in last 24 hours, India's total number of positive COVID-19 cases stands at 19,984, said Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Wednesday. total number of cases include 15,474 active cases and 640 deaths. As many as 3,869 people have been cured/discharged so far while one has migrated.

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(With ANI inputs)