KOLKATA, India (ANN/STRAITS TIMES) – Despite the conclusion of a 24-hour strike called by India’s largest doctors’ association, some junior doctors in Kolkata refrained from returning to work on August 18. The strike was initiated to demand swift justice following the tragic rape and murder of a 31-year-old postgraduate medical student in the early hours of August 9.
Doctors across India have united in solidarity, staging protests and candlelight vigils while refusing to attend to non-emergency patients over the past week. The incident, which occurred at the R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital, has reignited concerns about the safety of women in India, despite stricter laws introduced after the infamous 2012 Delhi gang-rape case.
The victim’s father, who cannot be identified under Indian law, expressed his gratitude for the support shown by the medical community. “My daughter is gone, but millions of sons and daughters are now with me,” he said, referring to the protesting doctors. “This has given me a lot of strength, and I believe we will achieve something out of this.”
The Indian Medical Association (IMA), whose strike officially ended at 6 a.m. local time on August 18, has appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for enhanced security measures for healthcare workers, likening the necessary protocols to those at airports. “All healthcare professionals deserve a peaceful environment, safety, and security at their workplace,” the IMA stated in a letter to the Prime Minister.
In Gujarat, over 6,000 trainee doctors in government hospitals continued their protest for a third consecutive day on August 18, although private institutions resumed normal operations. “We have unanimously decided to continue our protest to press for our demands,” said Dr. Dhaval Gameti, President of the Junior Doctors’ Association at B.J. Medical College in Ahmedabad. “In the interest of patients, we are providing emergency medical services but are not participating in outpatient or routine ward work.”
The government has urged doctors to return to their duties, especially in light of rising cases of dengue and malaria. It has also announced the formation of a committee to suggest measures to improve the safety of healthcare professionals.
While many doctors resumed their regular duties, the Indian Medical Association warned that if the government fails to implement strict protective measures, more extensive actions, including the cessation of emergency services, could be taken.
The All India Residents and Junior Doctors’ Joint Action Forum, however, has vowed to continue a “nationwide cease-work,” giving authorities a 72-hour deadline to conduct a thorough inquiry and make arrests.
Protests have also continued at R.G. Kar Medical College, where the tragedy occurred. Kolkata police have banned the assembly of more than five people near the hospital, citing concerns over public order, and deployed officers in riot gear.
Despite the rain, the atmosphere around the hospital remained tense, with no doctors seen at their usual protest site on August 18.
