Kolkata: The mysterious death of a woman doctor, a post-graduate trainee at R.G. Kar Medical College in Kolkata, has ignited a nationwide outcry, leading to a strike by Resident Doctors’ Associations across India. The Federation of Resident Doctors Association (FORDA) has announced a nationwide strike beginning August 12, demanding justice for the deceased doctor and enhanced safety measures for medical professionals.
The tragic incident, which involved the alleged rape and subsequent death of the doctor, has sent shockwaves through the medical community. Resident doctors across the country have united in protest, calling for a transparent investigation into the case and immediate action to ensure the safety of healthcare workers.
Former Indian cricketer Sourav Ganguly, breaking his silence on the incident, expressed his outrage. Speaking to news agency ANI, Ganguly said, “It is an unfortunate and heinous incident, strict action needs to be taken. There is a pressing need for more stringent measures regarding women’s safety. If such an incident can happen in a hospital, it underscores the need for comprehensive security arrangements, including CCTV cameras, not just in hospitals but everywhere.”
In response to the incident, FORDA has issued an ultimatum, warning that if their demands for the safety of doctors and a transparent investigation are not met, they will escalate the strike. The strike will affect medical services across the country, including Outpatient Departments (OPDs), elective surgeries, and ward duties, though emergency services will continue.
Following FORDA’s appeal, Resident Doctors’ Associations in major government hospitals in Delhi, including Lady Hardinge Medical College, Safdarjung Hospital, Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, and Maulana Azad Medical College, have announced their participation in the strike. These hospitals will halt OPD services, elective surgeries, and laboratory work starting tomorrow, while ensuring that emergency services remain operational.
FORDA’s demands include the immediate acceptance of the demands of the resident doctors at R.G. Kar Medical College and assurance that there will be no police misconduct or assault on protesting doctors. They have also called for justice for the deceased doctor and appropriate compensation for her family.
Additionally, FORDA has urged the central government to issue a nationwide protocol for the safety of health workers in all hospitals. They are advocating for the formation of an expert committee, composed of representatives from the medical community, to expedite the passage of the Central Health Protection Act, which they believe is urgently needed to protect healthcare professionals.
As the medical community rallies together, the focus remains on ensuring justice for the deceased doctor and implementing long-overdue safety measures to protect those who work tirelessly to care for others.
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