RG Kar: Junior doctors’ hunger strike enters 9th day, others on symbolic fast
The hunger strike by junior doctors at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital entered its ninth day on Monday, with their colleagues staging a symbolic fast in support. While the protesting doctors have reiterated their demand for a meeting with the Chief Minister and a fair investigation into the alleged attack on a fellow doctor, the state government has maintained that it is taking steps to ensure the safety of medical personnel.
The strike, which began on August 20, follows an alleged attack on a junior doctor by the family members of a patient at the hospital. The doctors have claimed that the incident is not isolated, and they face regular harassment and violence from patients and their relatives. They are demanding immediate action from the authorities, including increased security measures and stringent laws to deter such attacks.
Meanwhile, senior doctors and other staff at RG Kar Hospital have staged a symbolic fast to show solidarity with their junior colleagues. The symbolic fast is expected to continue until the demands of the protesting doctors are met.
“The government has promised us to investigate the issue and to take necessary steps. However, we need a clear roadmap from them and a firm assurance of our safety,” said a junior doctor participating in the hunger strike.
The incident at RG Kar Hospital has sparked outrage and concern across the state’s medical community. Many other medical colleges and hospitals have expressed their solidarity with the protesting doctors. They have called for an end to the violence against medical personnel and for the government to take effective measures to protect them.
“It is disheartening to see our colleagues suffer. We stand in solidarity with them and demand a safe environment to work in,” said a doctor from another hospital.
The state health minister, however, has assured the medical community that the government is taking the matter seriously. He has also called for restraint and urged all parties to work towards a peaceful resolution.
The authorities are working to ensure the smooth functioning of the hospital despite the strike. While many doctors have stayed away, others are still working in a limited capacity to provide emergency care. The strike, however, has affected the hospital’s regular operations, with many elective surgeries and other procedures being postponed.
The ongoing standoff between the junior doctors and the state government raises serious concerns about the safety and security of medical personnel in West Bengal. It highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to address the issue of violence against healthcare professionals, which has become increasingly prevalent in recent years. The government’s response will be crucial in determining the outcome of this crisis and the future of medical services in the state.
As the strike enters its ninth day, the pressure is mounting on the state government to resolve the issue. With the health of patients hanging in the balance, the government must take swift and decisive action to address the grievances of the protesting doctors and ensure the safety of all medical personnel.
