On September 19, 2024, resident doctors in West Bengal announced the end of their 41-day protest, agreeing to resume emergency services in state-run hospitals starting September 21. The strike followed the tragic death of a doctor at R.G. Kar Medical College and was fueled by demands for better safety and security measures for healthcare professionals. The West Bengal government responded by issuing directives to improve safety, including increased police presence in hospitals. Doctors plan to continue advocating for their demands, emphasizing that their fight for safety remains ongoing. The situation also involves broader issues, including investigations into past misconduct within the healthcare system.
Title: West Bengal Doctors End Strike, Resume Emergency Services Amid Safety Promises
In a significant development, resident doctors in West Bengal announced they will end their 41-day strike and return to emergency services starting Saturday, September 21, 2024. This decision comes after protests were sparked by the tragic incident of a doctor’s body being discovered at R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital on August 9.
The protesting doctors had been demanding improved safety measures in state-run hospitals. Their decision to recommence work followed directives issued by the West Bengal government aiming to enhance security and efficient functioning in healthcare settings. Aniket Mahato, a representative from the West Bengal Junior Doctors’ Front, emphasized that their struggle for safety will continue until significant changes are implemented.
On September 20, the doctors will organize a procession from the health department’s headquarters to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) office, reinforcing their call for stricter safety measures. The government plans to strengthen security in healthcare facilities by increasing police presence and conducting security audits.
As West Bengal deals with flooding, the doctors also announced plans to set up Abhaya Clinic for flood-affected individuals. The Chief Minister, Mamata Banerjee, has urged the doctors to return to work, citing the potential risk of disease outbreaks due to the flood situation.
In response to the unrest, the West Bengal Medical Council has canceled the registration of the former principal of R.G. Kar Medical College, who is under investigation in connection with the ongoing case.
The fight for healthcare professionals’ safety may have seen a pause in protests, but the commitment of West Bengal’s doctors to push for better conditions remains robust.
Published – September 19, 2024 11:30 pm IST
- Why did the resident doctors protest in Kolkata?
The resident doctors protested to express their anger and sadness over the tragic rape and murder of a fellow doctor.
- What decision did the doctors make about their strike?
The protesting resident doctors decided to call off their strike after some discussions with the authorities.
- What were the demands of the resident doctors during the protest?
The doctors demanded better safety measures and support for healthcare professionals to prevent such violence in the future.
- How did the community respond to the doctors’ protest?
Many people in the community supported the doctors, joining them in their calls for justice and improved safety.
- What will happen next after the strike is called off?
After calling off the strike, the doctors will continue their work while hoping for changes in safety protocols and support from the government.
