The junior doctors' protest at Swasthya Bhawan in Kolkata shows no signs of abating, as doctors continue to press for key demands. The protest, which has gained widespread attention, centers on improving hospital security and addressing systemic failures in healthcare leadership.
Another meeting with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has been sought, as doctors express frustration over the lack of concrete action.
The protesting junior doctors are calling for the removal of State Health Secretary NS Nigam, whom they accuse of neglecting the concerns of medical staff. In addition, they are demanding stricter security measures at hospitals to ensure the safety of healthcare workers, and action against former RG Kar Medical College Principal, Sandip Ghosh.
These demands follow a horrific crime that has left the medical community shaken—a postgraduate trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College was brutally raped and murdered, sparking outrage and calls for immediate change.
The violent crime that claimed the life of a young doctor has fueled widespread protests across West Bengal. Medical professionals and students have rallied together, demanding justice for their slain colleague and significant reforms to ensure a safer work environment for healthcare workers.
Amid the escalating protests, the Bengal chapter of the Indian Medical Association (IMA) has urged the West Bengal Medical Council (WBMC) to revoke Sandip Ghosh's medical registration. This follows accusations of negligence under his leadership, which protesters say contributed to the unsafe environment at RG Kar Medical College.
Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has allowed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to continue its investigation into the case, denying requests to stop live streaming of the proceedings. The victim's father has also come forward, criticising CM Mamata Banerjee for her alleged inaction against Sandip Ghosh in 2021, further fueling tensions.
The West Bengal Junior Doctors Front has vowed to continue the protest until their demands are met. While the state government has assured that actions are being taken, doctors remain skeptical. They are now pushing for another meeting with CM Mamata Banerjee to discuss the unresolved issues and ensure that their concerns are addressed. The coming days are likely to determine the next steps in this growing protest movement.