Odisha Doctors Demand Justice and Safety for Healthcare Providers

Outrage and Demands for Justice

In a tragic incident that has sparked widespread outrage, doctors and medical students across Odisha have come together to demand justice for the alleged rape and murder of a resident doctor at RG Kar Medical College in Kolkata. The Resident Doctors Association (RDA) at SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack expressed deep concern over the lack of security for healthcare providers in hospitals nationwide, including in Odisha.

Calls for Swift and Transparent Investigation

The RDA has called for a swift, impartial, and transparent investigation into the heinous crime. The association's president, Ramanaresh Yadav, emphasized the need for the perpetrators to be apprehended and brought to justice with the severest possible penalties. The incident highlights the severe deficiencies in the security systems within medical institutions across the country.

Demand for Central Protection Act for Doctors

In their official statement, the RDA urged the government to expedite the implementation of the 'Central Protection Act for Doctors' to safeguard the lives and well-being of healthcare professionals. The association stressed that ensuring a safe working environment for doctors is not only necessary but long overdue.

Nationwide Protest Consideration

Yadav also mentioned the possibility of a nationwide halting of elective services in hospitals, as announced by the Federation of Resident Doctors Association (FORDA), in solidarity with the deceased doctor. The decision on further action will be made after discussions with association members.

Solidarity from AIIMS Bhubaneswar and Other Medical Colleges

The Resident Doctors’ Association at AIIMS Bhubaneswar condemned the incident and extended solidarity to the cause of the resident doctors at RG Kar Medical College. Association president Suman Sahoo stated that immediate and decisive action is needed to protect healthcare workers and prevent such tragedies from happening again.

Demands for Robust Security Measures

Students Associations from AIIMS Bhubaneswar and other medical colleges have joined the call for the government to implement robust security measures and support systems to safeguard all medical professionals and students. The Odisha Medical Services Association (OMSA) president, Narayan Rout, also condemned the incident and demanded justice for the deceased doctor, indicating that the next steps would be discussed in a meeting with members.

Conclusion

The tragic death of the resident doctor in Kolkata has ignited a call to action among healthcare professionals in Odisha, highlighting the urgent need for improved security measures in medical institutions across the country. The solidarity shown by doctors and students alike reflects the deep concern and determination to ensure that such an incident never happens again.