Resident doctors at government hospitals across the nation staged protests on August 12 and 13, following the tragic rape-murder of a postgraduate trainee in Kolkata. In West Bengal and Delhi, doctors initiated an indefinite strike that severely impacted outpatient services and non-emergency surgeries.
This action was prompted by the Federation of Resident Doctors’ Association (FORDA), which stated, “the strike won’t cease until justice is delivered and our demands are addressed.”
During the indefinite strike, FORDA announced the closure of outpatient departments (OPDs), operating theatres, and ward duties, while emergency services will remain functional.
In Delhi, resident doctors from multiple hospitals, including well-known institutions, began their strike on Monday morning, resulting in challenges for patients who arrived seeking consultations but had to leave empty-handed.
In West Bengal, junior doctors, interns, and postgraduate trainees at government medical establishments pledged to continue their protests until justice is served.
The body of the postgraduate trainee, believed to have been raped and murdered, was discovered inside a seminar hall at RG Kar Hospital last week, with a civic volunteer arrested in connection with the incident.
This shocking event has ignited widespread protests, as junior doctors and healthcare professionals raise alarms about their safety.
Strong Solidarity Movements
In Maharashtra, resident doctors began an indefinite strike on August 13 in solidarity with protesting colleagues. All elective services in hospitals throughout Maharashtra will cease, though emergency services will carry on as usual, according to the Central MARD (Maharashtra State Association of Resident Doctors).
Joining the nationwide agitation, the Resident Doctors’ Association (RDA) of AIIMS Delhi suspended all elective and non-essential services, including OPDs and patient wards. However, emergency services will still be available for critically ill patients.
Various other major hospitals in the national capital also took part in the strike, highlighting the unified call for justice and safety.
Key Demands by FORDA
FORDA General Secretary emphasized the delivery of critical demands to the Health Secretary, including the immediate removal of the RG Kar Medical College principal, a CBI inquiry, a fast-track trial, and the establishment of a committee to enforce the Central Protection Act.
Nationwide protests included doctors donning black ribbons as a sign of solidarity for the victim, with slogans demanding justice resonating throughout hospitals.
Across various states, including Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Chandigarh, and Madhya Pradesh, resident doctors organized protests and strikes, calling for a thorough investigation and heightened security for medical staff.
The protests extended to multiple regions, with significant gatherings in Patna, Hyderabad, and Ahmedabad, demonstrating the collective outrage within the medical community over this grievous incident. Approximately 60 to 80 postgraduate medical students from Madras Medical College participated in a peaceful candlelight march on August 12 to honor the victim.
The JIPMER Resident Doctors’ Association in Puducherry also initiated an indefinite strike, halting all elective OPDs and procedures, stressing the urgency for justice.
