Kolkata junior physicians rejected a court order to return to work and maintained their protest. The violent rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor at a state-run hospital has shocked India since her body was found on August 9. Junior doctors in Kolkata remain resolute despite nationwide protests winding down.
The protesting doctors want justice for the killed trainee, the dismissal of senior police officials, and enhanced health worker protection. Protesters camped outside the West Bengal Health Department headquarters are uniting behind these demands.
The strike continues despite a Supreme Court deadline for doctors to return to work by Tuesday evening. A related case is before the Court, but the doctors won’t back down until their demands are met. Protesters say police inaction and administration have increased their insecurity, and judges have criticized local officials for their case management. The state administration rejects fault and claims it acted properly.
Protests in West Bengal have hampered healthcare. The state government reported 23 deaths owing to medical service disruptions, with patients claiming that the lack of doctors has hampered their care. The protesting doctors want emergency services to continue.
Dr. Amrita Bhattacharya of the West Bengal Junior Doctors’ Front said senior doctors are working hard and telemedicine services are available to patients. “We provide healthcare through telemedicine from protest sites,” she stated. “We can’t replace hospitals, but we treat patients.”
Doctors aren’t the only protesters. Health staff and the public have joined the protests, putting pressure on the state. While protests are occurring across the state, Kolkata has hosted most of them. The Indian Express recorded around 300 rallies in the city in the past month, many organized by women at midnight.
A diverse group of political groups and supporters have joined the protests, attracting national attention. Protesters said they are not affiliated with any political party but want justice for the victim and a safer workplace for healthcare workers.
The doctors want to negotiate with Mamata Banerjee, the state’s Chief Minister, live on TV. The protesters’ resolve has been strengthened by the authorities’ refusal of these criteria.
Dr. Sumantra Dey, another protester, said, “We might be Barcelona, we might be Manchester United, but here we are playing for India.” The comment emphasizes demonstrators’ camaraderie and desire for justice.
Despite legal and government pressure, Kolkata young doctors are demanding justice and safety. Beyond professional lines, their protests have become a public movement that has garnered national attention. Doctors said they won’t return to work until they feel safe, even though the strike is disrupting state healthcare. The situation is heated as negotiations and judicial rulings continue.
This story of justice, solidarity, and resilience shows healthcare professionals’ struggles and India’s need for better security and institutional responsibility.
Image Credit: https://wenewsenglish.pk/kolkata-doctors-continue-protests-over-colleagues-brutal-rape-and-murder/
