In the wake of a brutal rape and murder of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata, tensions have escalated significantly. On August 9, the body of a 32-year-old postgraduate trainee doctor was discovered in the seminar hall of the government-run hospital, sparking outrage and protests from medical professionals and students alike. The incident has garnered widespread attention and has led to a series of demonstrations demanding justice and improved safety for healthcare workers.
The situation intensified during a midnight protest against the horrific crime. What was initially a peaceful demonstration took a violent turn when a group of “outsiders” reportedly infiltrated the college premises. These individuals vandalized property and attacked the protesters, including doctors, escalating the unrest. The violence was captured in various videos and images that circulated on social media, showing the mob’s destructive actions and the chaos that ensued.
In response to the mounting pressure, newly appointed Principal Suhrita Pal faced a difficult situation. During the protests, Pal’s attempts to address the students’ concerns were met with frustration. In a heated exchange, she pleaded for patience, asserting that she needed an hour to complete her official duties and that the students needed to trust her. Her emotional response underscored the high-stress environment and the urgent demand for action.
The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has stepped in to amplify the protest. In solidarity with the Kolkata demonstrators and as a response to the violence, the IMA announced a nationwide strike of non-emergency services. Starting from 6 am on August 17 to 6 am on August 18, doctors across the country will withdraw non-essential services, including outpatient departments (OPDs) and elective surgeries. Essential services, such as emergency care and casualty wards, will remain operational. This nationwide withdrawal is intended to highlight the vulnerabilities faced by medical professionals and to demand improved safety measures within healthcare settings.
The IMA’s action also reflects broader concerns about the safety of healthcare workers, particularly women, who are often at risk of violence due to the nature of their work. The association’s statement criticizes the authorities for their perceived indifference and calls for urgent reforms to protect healthcare workers from physical assaults and crimes.
The tragic incident and the ensuing protests have drawn attention to the need for systemic changes to ensure the safety and security of doctors and medical staff. The actions taken by the IMA and the response of the medical community underscore the severity of the issue and the demand for justice and better protective measures within hospitals and medical institutions.
SOURCE :
ABP Live
