Thousands of junior doctors across India are continuing their protests over the rape and murder of a fellow doctor, disrupting hospital services nationwide. The protests, which began nearly a week ago, are a demand for safer workplaces and swift criminal action following the tragic incident.
The protests began after someone raped and murdered a 31-year-old trainee doctor on August 9 at a hospital in Kolkata. Authorities have arrested and charged a police volunteer with the crime. This horrific event has once again brought attention to the ongoing issue of sexual violence against women in India. Despite stricter laws enacted after the 2012 gang-rape and murder of a student in New Delhi, women continue to face such brutal crimes.
The protesting doctors refuse to treat non-emergency patients and vow to continue their sit-in until they meet their demands. Dr. Aniket Mahata, a spokesperson for the doctors at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, where the incident took place, states, “We will continue our indefinite cease-work and sit-in until we meet our demands.”
Indian Govt Urge Doctors to Return to Duties
The Indian government has urged the doctors to return to their duties and has promised to establish a committee to suggest ways to improve safety for healthcare professionals. However, the doctors remain firm in their stance, insisting that their protest will not end until concrete actions are taken.
In a show of solidarity, thousands of supporters, including fans of West Bengal’s two biggest soccer clubs, marched through the streets of Kolkata, chanting, “We want justice.” Protests have also spread to neighboring states like Odisha, as well as to New Delhi and Gujarat, with junior doctors in these regions joining the call for justice.
Also Read: Kolkata Rape And Murder Case Triggers Nationwide Doctors’ Strike
The ongoing protests highlight the urgent need for safer working conditions for healthcare workers and the broader issue of women’s safety in India.