In a show of solidarity following the tragic rape and murder of a second-year postgraduate trainee doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, the Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors (BMC MARD) has announced the suspension of elective and non-emergency medical services. The strike, set to begin at 8 am on August 13, will continue until the demands of the resident doctors at RG Kar Medical College are met.
The demands include the immediate appointment of a central agency to thoroughly investigate the case and ensure justice is served. Additionally, the doctors are calling for the enactment of a Central Protection Act specifically safeguarding healthcare workers, providing them with legal protection necessary to perform their duties without fear. Furthermore, they are demanding an urgent audit and enhancement of security measures at all medical institutions, including a detailed report on the number of CCTV cameras installed and the implementation of live feed monitoring with 100% coverage of hospital areas.
Protests by junior doctors have persisted since the discovery of the medical student’s body inside the seminar hall of the government-run RG Kar Medical College and Hospital on Friday. Authorities arrested a ‘civic volunteer’ on Saturday, who was subsequently placed in 14-day custody by the Sealdah Court.
On Sunday, Resident Doctors’ Association (RDA) AIIMS staged a candle march in support of the victim, while the Federation of Resident Doctors Association (FORDA) announced a nationwide halt of elective services in hospitals on August 12 to express solidarity with the residents of RG Kar Medical College. The nationwide response highlights the widespread concern and outrage within the medical community regarding the safety and security of healthcare workers.
