Doctors Intensify Stir Amid Nationwide Outrage Over Kolkata Rape-Murder Case

RG Kar Horror case: As the indefinite hunger strike of junior doctors in West Bengal enters its 11th day on Tuesday, the Indian Medical Association ( IMA ) has announced a nationwide hunger strike in solidarity with the protesting doctors. This decision follows an inconclusive meeting on Monday with Chief Secretary Manoj Pant and representatives from 12 doctors' associations. The hunger strike is a response to the tragic rape and murder of a postgraduate trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital.

Junior doctors in Kolkata have been on a hunger strike for ten days, demanding justice for their colleague. Their health has deteriorated, with two doctors requiring medical intervention during the protest. The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)'s investigation into the case later today. Frustration has grown among the doctors as the state government has failed to provide a timeline for addressing their concerns, exacerbated by Health Secretary NS Nigam's absence from the discussions.

Dr. RV Asokan, the IMA 's national president, is currently in Kolkata to meet with the fasting doctors. The nationwide hunger strike is set for Tuesday from 6 am to 6 pm, with participation expected from medical colleges and hospitals across the country. The IMA has called on all office bearers and resident doctors to join, emphasizing the urgent need for safer working conditions in healthcare facilities.

The hunger strike began on October 5 after nearly 50 days of 'cease work' following the tragic incident on August 9. Although some demands have been addressed, the government has yet to provide specific timelines for resolving the remaining issues.

Demands of Junior Doctors

The primary demands of the junior doctors include justice for the RG Kar Hospital victim, the immediate removal of Health Secretary NS Nigam, and improved workplace security. They also seek a centralized hospital referral system, a bed vacancy monitoring system, and essential infrastructure improvements like on-call rooms, CCTV, and proper washrooms.

Following Monday's meeting, Chief Secretary Pant acknowledged that while seven of the ten demands have been addressed, the remaining issues require further administrative consideration. Pant invited the Joint Platform of Doctors (JPD) for further discussions but urged them to cancel their planned 'Droher Carnival' demonstration, which coincides with the state's annual 'Durga Puja Carnival.'

AIIMS Resident Doctors Call for Presidential Intervention

In a related development, the Resident Doctors' Association (RDA) of AIIMS, New Delhi, has sent an urgent letter to the President of India requesting immediate intervention in the hunger strike by West Bengal doctors. The letter emphasizes the deteriorating health of several doctors admitted to the ICU and the pressing need for justice for their colleague.

The RDA highlighted that despite ongoing protests, no significant action has been taken by West Bengal authorities. They described the situation as "dire," stating, "These doctors, who are the backbone of India's healthcare system, are risking their lives for a cause that seeks to ensure justice, security, and safe working conditions for all healthcare professionals across the nation."

The letter concludes by urging the President to expedite action from West Bengal authorities, release the National Task Force (NTF) guidelines for healthcare worker safety, and ensure better protection for medical professionals.