In the wake of the tragic Kolkata doctor rape and murder case, junior doctors in West Bengal have put their bodies on the line in a ‘fast-unto-death’ hunger strike. The Federation of All India Medical Association (FAIMA) has paused their nationwide shutdown to support this protest, as key doctors’ bodies pause their strike for a meeting with the government to discuss their demands.
Junior Doctors in West Bengal Continue Hunger Strike Over Safety Concerns
Junior doctors in West Bengal are making headlines as they enter the 10th day of their ‘fast-unto-death’ hunger strike. The protest comes in response to the alleged sexual assault and murder of a trainee doctor at R.G. Kar hospital, a tragic incident that has shaken the medical community.
The Chief Secretary’s call for the doctors to end their demonstration, especially on the day of a government event, has been met with disappointment by the doctors. Their primary focus remains on seeking justice for the victim, ensuring workplace security, and pushing for systemic changes to create a safer healthcare environment.
In a show of solidarity, the Federation of All India Medical Association (FAIMA) has halted the planned nationwide shutdown of elective services in hospitals. This pause aims to support the ongoing protest in West Bengal and draw attention to the urgent need for addressing the doctors’ grievances.
Efforts to resolve the situation are underway, with the West Bengal Chief Secretary reaching out to representatives of key doctors’ bodies for a meeting to discuss the demands of the protesting junior doctors. Key demands include the removal of the Health Secretary, implementation of workplace safety measures, and structural reforms such as a centralised referral system and better monitoring of bed vacancies.
The toll of the hunger strike is evident, with three doctors already hospitalized due to deteriorating health. The situation remains tense, with FAIMA warning of a nationwide shutdown of elective services starting Monday if the discussions with the West Bengal government do not yield positive outcomes.
The decision to pause the strike by FAIMA was not taken lightly and reflects the growing frustration over the lack of concrete actions from the authorities. The resolve of the junior doctors in West Bengal to fight for justice and a safer working environment is unwavering, highlighting the urgent need for meaningful dialogue and effective solutions to address their concerns.
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