Junior doctors in West Bengal have reinstated their indefinite strike, demanding enhanced safety and security in medical facilities. The strike, which began on October 1, follows a brief return to work on September 21 after a 42-day protest triggered by the rape and murder of a woman doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital on August 9.
Protest leader Aniket Mahato expressed frustration over the lack of positive action from the state government: “Today marks the 52nd day of our protest, and we continue to face attacks without any fulfillment of the promises made in discussions with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Given the circumstances, we have no choice but to fully cease work starting today.” He emphasized that the strike would continue until the government takes decisive action on their demands.
In a show of solidarity, senior doctors are organizing a rally in Kolkata on Tuesday at 5 pm, with around 60 civil society organizations expected to join. Manas Gumta, a surgery professor and member of the Joint Platform of Doctors, stated, “Our movement will persist until justice is achieved. The rally will feature cultural programs, including a street play addressing this heinous crime.”
Another rally, organized by the West Bengal Junior Doctors’ Forum, is set for Wednesday at 1 pm, anticipated to draw participation from senior doctors and various community organizations.
Earlier, the Calcutta High Court permitted the Joint Platform of Doctors to hold a peaceful rally on October 1 to protest the tragic incident. Justice Rajarshi Bharadwaj authorized the demonstration to occur between 5 pm and 8 pm, starting at College Square and concluding at Rabindra Sadan, with an expected turnout of around 50,000 participants.
