Junior doctors across government hospitals in West Bengal have resumed their complete cease-work strike, intensifying their demand for safety and security in the workplace. This protest follows the alleged rape and murder of a junior doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, which has sparked widespread outrage in the medical community.
The strike comes after weeks of partial protests that began following the tragic incident. The West Bengal Junior Doctors’ Forum, which is leading the protest, has expressed deep concerns over the “threat culture” prevalent in government-run medical colleges, citing issues of sexual harassment, bribery, and corruption that compromise the safety of students and junior doctors.
On Monday, junior doctors announced their decision to resume the total cease-work, despite earlier assurances from the state government regarding their security. In a letter to Chief Secretary Manoj Pant, the Forum emphasized that the government had yet to meet their demands, which were “verbally agreed upon” during a meeting on September 18.
Torch rallies have also been organized in several locations, including RG Kar Hospital, SSKM Hospital, and Calcutta Medical College, drawing attention to the need for immediate action to improve safety measures in hospitals.
The Supreme Court is set to hear the case related to the RG Kar Hospital rape-murder today, adding another layer of urgency to the situation. The case has already raised serious concerns about the safety of medical professionals, with the court acknowledging the gravity of the allegations.
While the junior doctors’ strike continues to paralyze medical services in state-run hospitals, the protestors maintain that they will not return to work until their safety is ensured and meaningful reforms are implemented.