Junior doctors in Indian hospitals have been protesting following the rape and murder of a 31-year-old postgraduate student in Kolkata. Despite the end of a 24-hour strike called by the country’s biggest association of doctors, protests have continued across the country. Women activists have pointed out that the incident at the R G Kar Medical College and Hospital highlights the ongoing issues faced by women in India, despite tougher laws implemented after the 2012 gang-rape and murder of a student in Delhi.
The victim’s father expressed his gratitude for the support of the protesting doctors and the strength they have given him. The Indian Medical Association (IMA) urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene and ensure the safety of hospital staff with security protocols similar to those in airports. While the government has called for doctors to return to work to address rising cases of dengue and malaria, the All India Residents and Junior Doctors’ Joint Action Forum has continued its “nationwide cease-work” until authorities conduct a thorough investigation and make arrests.
Dr Prabhas Ranjan Tripathy from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in Bhubaneswar reported that junior doctors and interns had not resumed duty, causing a manpower shortage. The protests at R G Kar hospital have continued for over a week, prompting police to ban gatherings of five or more people around the hospital and deploy riot police. Despite the restrictions, the doctors have remained dedicated to their cause, demanding justice for their colleague and increased protection for healthcare professionals.
India implemented changes to the criminal justice system in the wake of the 2012 Delhi attack, but activists argue that not enough has been done to prevent violence against women. The IMA emphasized the need for a peaceful environment and safety for healthcare professionals, especially as 60% of doctors in India are women. While many doctors have returned to their usual activities, the situation remains tense as the All India Residents and Junior Doctors’ Joint Action Forum has set a 72-hour deadline for authorities to act, threatening to stop emergency services if demands are not met.
The ongoing protests have disrupted hospital operations and put pressure on the healthcare system, with doctors demanding justice and increased security measures. The situation at R G Kar hospital has been particularly intense, with police interventions to control the gatherings around the facility. As the protests continue and authorities have yet to meet the demands of the doctors, the future course of action remains uncertain, with the potential for further disruptions to medical services until adequate measures are put in place to protect healthcare professionals.
