West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee visited the protest site of resident doctors on Saturday, September 14, 2024, in the Salt Lake area, where doctors are demanding justice for the tragic rape and murder of a fellow medic from R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital.
During her visit, Banerjee encouraged the protesting doctors to resume their duties, assuring them that there would be no repercussions for their actions. She characterized this meeting as her final attempt to resolve the ongoing dispute with the doctors.
The junior doctors who are protesting welcomed the Chief Minister’s arrival but emphasized the need for urgent discussions. They maintained their stance and ongoing sit-in demonstration outside the State Health Department headquarters, which has now entered its fifth consecutive day.
Earlier, the junior doctors sent letters to President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, seeking intervention in the stalemate concerning the R.G. Kar hospital case.
Banerjee expressed concern over the ramifications of the strike, stating, “29 precious lives have been lost due to disruptions in health services caused by the prolonged cease work by junior doctors.” In response, she announced financial assistance for families affected by the interruption in healthcare services.
The doctors pressed on with their strike despite a Supreme Court order mandating their return to work by 5 PM on September 10, warning that disciplinary action could be pursued by the State if they did not comply.
This unfolding situation highlights the growing tension between resident doctors and the state government, raising pressing questions about healthcare safety and accountability in West Bengal.
