Junior doctors across West Bengal have resumed their indefinite strike, protesting medical establishments' lack of safety and security. This action comes after a 42-day protest partially called off on September 21 when the government promised improvements that have since gone unfulfilled.
The strike reignited following the brutal rape and murder of a woman doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital on August 9. In response, junior doctors demand justice for the victim and immediate measures to enhance safety in hospitals across the state.
As per edexLive reports, the doctors have laid out several key demands, including justice for the deceased doctor through immediate legal action and a thorough investigation to ensure swift punishment for those responsible. They also call for improved safety protocols at all medical establishments to protect healthcare workers. In addition, the doctors are demanding the removal of the current Health Secretary, holding them accountable for failing to address previous safety concerns. Other demands include the establishment of a centralised referral system to streamline patient transfers between hospitals, the implementation of a digital system to monitor bed availability in real-time, increased police presence within hospital premises, and the recruitment of permanent female police personnel to ensure the safety of female healthcare workers and patients.
As part of their ongoing protest, the junior doctors have organised a march from College Square to Dharmatala in central Kolkata on October 2, inviting the public to join in solidarity. This march is expected to bring further attention to their cause as the strike continues to disrupt healthcare services throughout the state. Many hospitals operate at reduced capacity, with non-emergency services most affected, leaving patients struggling to access medical care. The healthcare crisis pressures the state government to intervene and address the situation.
Various stakeholders, including healthcare organisations and political figures, have urged the state government to resolve the issue and restore normalcy to the state's healthcare system. As the strike continues, it highlights the urgent need for hospital security reforms, ensuring that healthcare workers can operate in safe environments while providing critical services to the public.
