Junior doctors in West Bengal announced a potential statewide strike for October 22 if the government does not meet their demands. These demands arise from the tragic case involving the alleged rape and murder of a colleague at R G Kar Medical College and Hospital. The protesting doctors have actively campaigned for nearly two months and have given the state government a deadline of October 21 to address their concerns.
Call for Dialogue with the Chief Minister
Debasish Halder, a representative of the protesting junior doctors, emphasized the group’s desire for a discussion with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. “We want the chief minister to sit for a discussion and implement all our demands,” Halder stated. He stressed that if the government fails to meet their demands, both junior and senior doctors across government and private healthcare facilities will strike on Tuesday.
Seeking Justice and Improved Safety
The junior doctors advocate for justice for their colleague, a postgraduate trainee who allegedly faced rape and murder in August. They demand not only justice but also enhanced workplace safety, a centralized referral system, and improvements to healthcare infrastructure. “Our colleagues are holding a fast-unto-death. If the chief minister does not act by Monday, we will be forced to go on a strike on Tuesday,” Halder reiterated.
Concerns Over Chief Minister’s Absence
Sayantani Ghosh Hazra, another doctor involved in the protests, expressed disappointment over Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s lack of engagement. “She is the guardian of the state and we are like her children. Could she not visit us once over our valid demands?” Hazra, who has been on a hunger strike since October 5, highlighted the importance of the chief minister’s support.
Specific Demands of the Protesters
The junior doctors outlined several key demands, including:
- The immediate removal of West Bengal Health Secretary N. S. Nigam.
- Improved security measures at hospitals.
- Installation of CCTV cameras.
- Creation of proper on-call rooms and washrooms.
- Implementation of a bed vacancy monitoring system to enhance patient care across facilities.
Previous Protests and Government Promises
The junior doctors previously engaged in a 42-day cease-work protest after the incident on August 9 but ended the strike on September 21 following assurances from the state government. However, they allege that the government has not fulfilled these promises, prompting their current demands for action.