Kolkata Doctor Murder Case Sparks Nationwide Protests
The tragic murder of a postgraduate doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College on August 9 has ignited widespread protests across West Bengal and beyond. The young doctor was brutally raped and murdered, with her body found inside the hospital premises. This horrifying incident has led junior doctors in West Bengal to initiate a Fast-Unto-Death protest, demanding justice and enhanced security for medical professionals. As their hunger strike reaches its 11th day, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) has stepped in to amplify their cause with a nationwide hunger strike in solidarity.
IMA Calls for Nationwide Hunger Strike
In a strong show of support, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) has organized a 24-hour hunger strike on October 15. This protest, led by IMA’s Junior Doctors Network (JDN) and backed by the IMA Action Committee, aims to raise awareness of the demands made by the protesting junior doctors in West Bengal. Their key demand is justice for the murdered doctor and the creation of a safer work environment for healthcare professionals.
The IMA has coined the slogan “Suno Bengal, Suno Bharat” (Listen Bengal, Listen India) to resonate with the public and highlight the dire situation in West Bengal. The association has urged Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to acknowledge the junior doctors’ demands and take necessary action to ensure the safety and security of medical practitioners.
Hunger Strike in Response to Government Inaction
The hunger strike follows a 50-day “cease-work” protest staged by junior doctors in two phases, which failed to elicit any meaningful response from the state government. Frustrated by the lack of action, the junior doctors escalated their protest into a Fast-Unto-Death, which has now entered its 11th day. Seven junior doctors remain on hunger strike, with several already hospitalized due to deteriorating health conditions.
Doctors’ Health Deteriorating as Protests Continue
One of the striking doctors, Pulastha Acharya from NRS Medical College and Hospital, was admitted to the Critical Care Unit on Sunday night after experiencing severe stomach pain, making him the fourth medic to be hospitalized during the hunger strike.
Growing National Support: FAIMA and Other Medical Bodies Join In
The protest has garnered nationwide attention, with medical associations across India voicing their support. The Federation of All India Medical Associations (FAIMA), representing Resident Doctors’ Associations (RDAs) from various states, has called for a nationwide shutdown of elective medical services starting Monday, October 14. However, FAIMA has ensured that emergency services will continue to operate to avoid compromising patient care.
FAIMA has also issued a stern warning, stating that if any harm befalls the protesting junior doctors, a complete shutdown of medical services across the country will be enforced.
Despite the growing support, the situation on the ground in Kolkata remains tense. The health of the protesting doctors has worsened significantly, with three of the protest leaders already hospitalized. Among them is Aniket Mahato, one of the key figures leading the movement. Medical professionals, along with the public, are growing increasingly concerned about the well-being of those on hunger strike.
The Junior Doctors’ Forum (JDF) in West Bengal has expressed frustration over the state administration’s inaction, stating that despite the critical health conditions of the protestors, the state government remains unmoved. The IMA, in its latest statement, reiterated the urgent need for the state government to respond to the demands of the junior doctors.
IMA Urges State Government to Act
The IMA had previously sent a letter to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on October 11, urging her to address the concerns of the medical community. The letter emphasized that ensuring the “peaceful ambiance and security” of healthcare workers is not a luxury but a basic requirement. The IMA stressed the importance of restoring a sense of safety within the medical fraternity, particularly in light of the brutal killing of the young doctor.
A Cry for Justice and Safety
As the hunger strike continues, the protesting junior doctors remain steadfast in their demands for justice for the murdered doctor and improved security measures in hospitals. With the IMA’s nationwide hunger strike amplifying their cause, pressure is mounting on the West Bengal government to take immediate action. The tragic incident in Kolkata has not only highlighted the vulnerability of healthcare professionals but has also sparked a broader conversation about the safety and protection of those who serve on the frontlines of public health.
(With inputs from agencies)
