The RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata has taken a drastic step in the wake of the ongoing protests following the tragic death of a postgraduate trainee doctor. The hospital has issued a notice suspending 51 doctors, a move that has further escalated tensions.
The notice, issued by the Special Council Committee of RG Kar Hospital, cites the reason for the suspension as the doctors’ alleged promotion of a culture of intimidation and their actions hindering the institution’s democratic atmosphere. The list of suspended individuals includes senior residents, house staff, interns, and professors. They are now required to appear before an enquiry committee on September 11 to prove their innocence.
Adding to the restrictions, the 51 doctors are prohibited from accessing the hospital premises unless summoned by the enquiry committee. Furthermore, their participation in any college activities is strictly forbidden.
The controversy surrounding RG Kar Hospital has been brewing since the tragic incident on August 9. A postgraduate trainee doctor was reportedly raped and murdered while on duty, sparking widespread outrage and protests across the nation.
Junior doctors have been leading the protests, demanding justice for their fallen colleague. They have declared their intention to continue their cease work action, refusing to resume their duties until their demands are met. The intensity of the situation is reflected in the public outpouring of support for the protesting doctors, with citizens taking to the streets of Kolkata to demand justice for the deceased trainee.
Adding a poignant touch, the mother of the deceased trainee expressed her immense grief, stating that while she had lost her only child, she now considers all the protesting doctors as her own.
The Supreme Court, taking cognizance of the situation, has intervened by asking all the protesting doctors to return to work by 5 pm on Tuesday. Failure to comply with this directive could result in disciplinary action by the state government. Despite the court’s order, the doctors have reportedly maintained their stance, indicating their continued resolve to pursue their demands.
The West Bengal government has informed the Supreme Court of the grim reality that the ongoing protests have resulted in the loss of 23 lives. This tragic statistic underscores the severity of the situation and the need for a swift resolution.
