Kolkata: The ongoing protest by doctors in Kolkata has escalated, following the tragic rape and murder of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College. The demonstrations, which have now entered their several consecutive days, have drawn responses from top West Bengal officials who are calling for a resolution to the impasse.
West Bengal Chief Secretary, Manoj Pant, extended an invitation to the protesting doctors for a meeting, emphasising the need for dialogue. “We have reached out via email, but have yet to receive a response,” Pant stated. “A meeting was scheduled for 6 PM today, but moments before, another email arrived. We remain open to dialogue and want to discuss ways to improve the entire health department, but no one has come forward,” he added.
Pant insisted that negotiations should not be conducted under the current conditions, asserting, “We are all educated individuals, and doctors are highly esteemed professionals. We hope that the protesting students will heed the Supreme Court’s directives and return to work soon.”
Calls for Calm and Assurance of Security
Amidst the heated atmosphere, West Bengal DGP Rajiv Kumar assured the medical community of their safety, saying, “We are prepared to provide all necessary security to the doctors. We urge them not to take any misguided steps. We all want healthcare services to resume, and for doctors to return to their duties.”
Chandrima Bhattacharya, a state minister, suggested political motives behind the ongoing protests, remarking, “It seems that there is political intent behind the students’ actions. They want the discussions to be broadcast live, while we are advocating for broader participation in the dialogue.” Bhattacharya also stressed that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is keen to engage with the doctors in good faith, but the students appear unwilling.
Minister Accuses Protestors of Politicising the Tragedy
Bhattacharya went on to highlight the state government’s commitment to justice for the victim’s family, but expressed concerns that “the students are deviating from the path and the junior doctors are now painting the issue in political colours.”
As tensions remain high, the government continues to appeal for the doctors to return to work while ensuring their safety and committing to discussions for improving the healthcare system. The situation remains fluid as both sides await further developments.
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