A suspicious black bag has been discovered near the RG Kar Hospital, specifically at the location where doctors are protesting in demand for justice for their colleague, who was allegedly raped and murdered inside the hospital. The bomb squad has arrived at the scene to investigate whether the bag contains any explosives.
Police Investigation and Ongoing Protests
Police have cordoned off the area and are conducting further investigations. Meanwhile, the protests have entered their 34th day. These protests have seen renewed discussions between the protesting doctors and the West Bengal state government.
State Government’s Call for Talks
On Wednesday, Chief Secretary Manoj Pant reached out to the protesting doctors, inviting them to a meeting. His letter emphasized the disruption caused to patients and their families due to the protests. Pant proposed a meeting at the state secretariat, Nabanna, suggesting that a delegation of 12-15 doctors attend the discussions.
In his strongly worded letter, the Chief Secretary urged the doctors to limit the number of participants as per government guidelines, while assuring them that the state is eager to resolve the issue through dialogue.
Protesters’ Response to Government Invitation
However, the doctors pushed back against the invitation, requesting that their delegation consist of at least 30 members. They also demanded that the meeting be broadcast live for full transparency. The doctors further insisted that West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee be present at the meeting, and that discussions focus on addressing their five main demands.
What Are the Doctors’ Demands?
The protesting doctors have put forward five key demands:
Holding accountable and punishing those responsible for the rape and murder, including any individuals involved in tampering with evidence.
Disciplinary action against former RG Kar Medical College Principal Sandip Ghosh.
The resignation of Kolkata Police Commissioner Vineet Goyal and Health Secretary Narayan Swaroop Nigam.
Improved security measures for healthcare workers.
Addressing the ongoing culture of threats within government healthcare institutions.
The situation remains tense as both sides seek a resolution to the ongoing protests while ensuring justice for the deceased doctor.