Kolkata rape-murder: Junior doctors' strike disrupts healthcare services in West Bengal

KOLKATA: Healthcare services in West Bengal were disrupted as junior doctors continued their cease work on Wednesday, demanding improved security at state-run hospitals following the rape and murder of their colleague.
The junior doctors resumed their strike on Tuesday, claiming that the government failed to keep its commitments. This action followed a 42-day cessation of work that began on August 9, when the body of a fellow doctor was discovered at the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital.
On September 21, the doctors had partially returned to their duties, providing essential services after the government pledged to resolve most of their issues.
However, the doctors have now accused the government of not following through on its promises, leading to the current work stoppage.
"The cease work is going on as of now. However, there is a possibility of reconsidering the complete cease work as a section of senior doctors has different opinions about it. We will hold meetings with all stakeholders to decide the way forward as we too don't want to stay away from work unless the situation compels us," Subhendu Mallick, one of the protesting junior doctors, said.
The doctors also voiced concern over the slow pace of the CBI investigation into the rape and murder of the medic.
"The CBI's investigation is frustratingly slow. We've seen many cases where delays result in culprits going free. We are disappointed," said a statement released by the junior doctors on Tuesday.
In addition to seeking justice for their deceased colleague, the protesting doctors have presented a comprehensive list of demands. These include the removal of the state's health secretary, increased police presence in hospitals, and the deployment of permanent female police officers.
The junior doctors have also called for the immediate recruitment of doctors, nurses, and healthcare workers to fill all vacant positions. They have advocated for the implementation of a digital system to monitor bed availability in hospitals.
Additionally, the junior doctors called for students' council elections in all medical colleges and the recognition of Resident Doctors' Associations (RDAs). They also stressed the need for elected students and junior doctors to have representation in committees overseeing the management of hospitals and colleges.
(With inputs from agency)