The brutal murder-rape of a postgraduate trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College in Kolkata on August 9th has ignited widespread outrage and protests across India. The incident has sent shockwaves through the medical fraternity, leading to calls for justice and accountability.
The Resident Doctors’ Associations (RDAs) in Delhi have announced a joint protest march on August 16th, starting from Nirman Bhavan. The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has declared a 24-hour nationwide strike by doctors, beginning at 6 AM on Saturday, August 17th. In Goa, over 1,000 doctors from private and government hospitals will abstain from outpatient department (OPD) services for 24 hours starting August 17th.
Students at the state-run SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack staged a cease-work protest on Thursday, disrupting healthcare services. The Bharatiya Janata Party Mahila Morcha will hold silent candle marches across all district headquarters on August 16th, condemning the crime.
The Federation of Resident Doctors’ Association (FORDA) has resumed its strike, demanding justice for the slain doctor. Amidst the growing unrest, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee accused the Left of collaborating with the BJP to stir unrest in the state. She claimed that the individuals involved in the vandalism at RG Kar Hospital were not connected to the student movement and were instead outsiders.
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) Special Crime Branch in Kolkata has summoned five doctors and hospital staff for questioning in connection with the case. The CBI is conducting a thorough investigation into the alleged rape and murder, aiming to bring the perpetrators to justice.
The case has highlighted the urgent need for stronger safety measures for healthcare professionals in India, and raised concerns about the state government’s response to the tragedy. The nationwide protests underscore the deep sense of anger and frustration among the medical community, demanding swift action and a commitment to ensuring the safety of doctors and medical staff.
