Nationwide Doctor Safety Protests After Kolkata

Nationwide Doctor Safety Protests After Kolkata

Doctors Demand Central Ordinance for Safety After Kolkata Tragedy

In the wake of the alleged rape and murder of a postgraduate trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata, doctors across India have intensified their protests, demanding a central ordinance to safeguard healthcare professionals. The Resident Doctors' Association (RDA) at AIIMS, New Delhi, has taken a unique step in their ongoing strike by deciding to provide elective OPD services outside Nirman Bhawan, the Health Ministry's office.

  • Background of the Incident:
    On August 9, 2024, a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College was allegedly raped and murdered while on duty, sparking nationwide outrage within the medical community. The tragic incident has led to widespread protests and strikes by doctors, who are demanding stricter security measures and legal protection against violence.
  • Protests and Strike Actions:
    The RDA AIIMS, in collaboration with the Action Committee for Central Protection Act, has decided to halt all academic activities, elective OPDs, ward services, and OT services while maintaining emergency services. In a press release, they emphasized the need for a central ordinance to protect healthcare workers and urged the government to take immediate action.
  • Continued Services During the Strike:
    Despite the ongoing strike, resident doctors will provide elective OPD services in front of Nirman Bhawan on August 19, ensuring that patients continue to receive necessary care. This move reflects the doctors' commitment to patient care while highlighting the critical need for better security measures within healthcare institutions.
  • Call for Government Action:
    The protesting doctors have urged the government to urgently pass a central ordinance that would guarantee the safety and security of healthcare workers. They have also requested the necessary arrangements to facilitate the elective outpatient services outside Nirman Bhawan.

The protests have garnered widespread support from medical professionals across the country, with many calling for swift government action to address the safety concerns raised by the tragic incident in Kolkata.