Doctors across India are engaged in a significant protest following the tragic rape and murder of a 31-year-old doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The Federation of Resident Doctors’ Association (FORDA) has called for a nationwide halt to elective procedures, affecting outpatient services and causing widespread disruptions.
Kolkata Rape-Murder Case: Key Facts About the Protest
- Nationwide Disruptions: Doctors have halted elective services nationwide, focusing only on emergency procedures. This strike comes in response to the horrific crime against a fellow doctor in Kolkata.
- FORDA’s Demands: The Federation of Resident Doctors’ Association has demanded the resignation of the officials responsible for ensuring doctors’ safety. They are also calling for stringent security measures and assurances that protesting doctors will not face any backlash.
- Impact on Kolkata Hospitals: Most hospitals in Kolkata are severely affected, with many patients and their families experiencing significant delays and inconvenience due to the ongoing protest.
- Protests at Other Hospitals: In Lucknow, doctors at King George’s Medical University have staged a protest, while in Mumbai, prominent hospitals such as JJ Hospital, Sion Hospital, Nair Hospital, and King Edward Memorial Hospital have also seen participation in the strike.
- Reduction in Services at AIIMS Delhi: The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Delhi has reported an 80% drop in daily surgeries and a 35% decrease in admissions due to the doctors’ indefinite strike.
- IMA’s Call for Central Legislation: The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has urged Health Minister JP Nadda to enact a central law aimed at preventing violence against doctors. They argue that existing state laws are ineffective and need a uniform national approach.
- Security Protocols for Healthcare Workers: The IMA has requested that healthcare workers be designated as “safe zones” and that robust security protocols be enforced to protect them from violence.
- Arrest in Kolkata Case: A civic volunteer with frequent access to the hospital has been arrested in connection with the rape and murder case. West Bengal Chief Minister has given the city police until Sunday to complete their investigation, after which a recommendation for a CBI probe will be considered.
- Public Reaction: The strike has led to widespread media coverage and public support, highlighting the urgent need for improved safety measures for medical professionals.
- Call for Immediate Action: The medical community is emphasizing the need for immediate reforms and enhanced security to prevent such incidents in the future and ensure the safety of doctors on duty.
The protest underscores the severe safety concerns faced by healthcare professionals and the need for comprehensive measures to safeguard their well-being.
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