Junior doctors in Kolkata have launched a complete cease-work of healthcare services, including emergency care, just ten days after returning to their posts.
This decision comes in response to continued attacks on medical staff and inadequate safety measures in state hospitals, exacerbating concerns for the safety of healthcare workers.
The West Bengal Junior Doctors’ Front (WBJDF) had initially resumed work on September 21 after receiving assurances from the state government regarding justice for a postgraduate trainee doctor who was brutally raped and murdered at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. However, the WBJDF has expressed disappointment with the government's slow progress in addressing their demands for improved security measures. Dr. Rashmik Mukherjee, a junior doctor involved in the protests, stated, “The progress has been very, very slow. Even half of the work has not been completed, despite the Supreme Court’s directive.”
Recent incidents, including an attack on junior doctors at Sagore Dutta Medical College and Hospital, have heightened the urgency for enhanced safety protocols within the healthcare system. In a recent hearing, the Supreme Court expressed its concern regarding the slow implementation of security measures in West Bengal’s state-run hospitals. The court highlighted that out of the 6,178 CCTV cameras planned for installation to bolster security, only 22% have been set up so far.
As the strike continues, junior doctors emphasize their commitment to serving patients, stating that they have been compelled to protest due to the lack of action on safety assurances. The situation remains critical as healthcare services face significant disruptions, leaving many patients without care during the ongoing strike.