Lagatar24 Desk
Kolkata: Despite the Supreme Court’s appeal for calm, doctors from RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata remain steadfast in their protest against the tragic rape and murder of a 31-year-old woman at the facility. Medical professionals from other colleges across West Bengal have joined the protest, expressing their outrage over the incident and demanding justice.
The Supreme Court had earlier urged the doctors to call off their strike, assuring them that “no stringent action” would be taken against them for their participation in the protests. However, the doctors have decided to continue their strike, citing the severity of the incident and their commitment to seeking justice for their colleague.
In contrast, the Resident Doctors’ Association (RDA) at Delhi’s AIIMS hospital announced today that they have called off their nearly two-week-long strike in solidarity with the Kolkata doctors. The RDA stated that they made this decision after receiving assurances from the Supreme Court, which had urged medical professionals nationwide to “please trust us” and resume their duties.
The Supreme Court had taken suo motu cognizance of the Kolkata incident and made strong remarks regarding the conduct of the college’s principal and the subsequent investigation. The court emphasized the importance of medical professionals returning to work, stressing that prolonged strikes could adversely impact patients in need of care.
Chief Justice of India, DY Chandrachud, addressed the doctors directly, saying, “We earnestly appeal to all doctors… we are here to ensure their safety and protection. Please trust us, that is why we have not left the matter to the (Calcutta) High Court.”
Despite these assurances, the doctors at RG Kar Medical College, along with their colleagues across Bengal, remain resolute in their protest, highlighting the need for systemic changes to ensure the safety and security of healthcare professionals in the state.
