The newly-formed West Bengal Junior Doctors' Association (WBJDA) will hold its first public convention today at Star Theatre in Kolkata at 3 pm, aiming to reignite calls for justice in the case of Abhaya, a medical intern who was tragically raped and murdered on August 9.
The WBJDA, established on October 26, was created by junior doctors, mainly from RG Kar Medical College, where Abhaya worked, in response to what they claim is a diversion from the cause by the West Bengal Junior Doctors' Front (WBJDF). The association states that its mission is to bring the focus back to justice for Abhaya and the systemic issues her case exposed.
Shreesh Chakraborty, convener of the WBJDA and an intern at RG Kar Medical College, told EdexLive, “Our main goal has always been, and will continue to be, justice.” Chakraborty expressed concern that the original movement lost its way under WBJDF’s influence, straying from the purpose of securing justice for Abhaya. He highlighted that WBJDA’s immediate demand is for the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to expedite the trial and complete the final charge sheet. The WBJDA has raised the alarm over alleged witness tampering and claims that several doctors were unjustly suspended under what Chakraborty describes as a “threat culture” by influential figures within the WBJDF. Although the High Court has stayed these suspension orders, the professional and emotional toll on affected doctors remains high.
According to Chakraborty, the intense pressure has left some doctors severely distressed, with two colleagues reportedly experiencing suicidal thoughts. “One of our colleagues has even attempted to take their life twice,” he disclosed, emphasizing the toll on mental health. At today’s convention, senior doctors who have reportedly faced similar pressures will speak out, seeking to foster transparency and support within the community.
Through this event, the WBJDA hopes to rally public support and encourage others to come forward, with the broader aim of maintaining momentum for justice. Chakraborty urged the public to trust WBJDA’s mission, saying, “We ask the public to have faith in us so we can move forward with our agenda for justice.”