KOLKATA: Junior doctors in Kolkata, India, ended their 17-day hunger strike on Monday. They launched the protest in response to the rape and murder of a colleague. The doctors decided to call off the strike after the victim’s parents appealed to them. During the Indian doctors protest, the junior doctors demanded better security measures in government hospitals. #IndianDoctorsProtest
The protesters also met with the chief minister of the opposition-led state. They pressed their demands for improved security in government hospitals and justice for the victim.
A police volunteer was arrested for the crime, which ignited nationwide protests in August and September. The woman’s body was discovered at R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital on August 9.
“They (the victim’s parents) expressed their worries about the fasting junior doctors’ health as well as the defunct health care services that must have affected hundreds of ordinary citizens,” said Dr Debasish Halder, a spokesman for the doctors.
Some participants in the strike experienced severe dehydration and required hospitalization.
The doctors reported that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee agreed to fulfill most of their demands during their meeting on Monday.
“Our movement for justice and a healthy, secure healthcare system will continue,” Halder said, adding that the doctors would track progress on her assurances and orders for change.
Doctors claim that government hospitals in India lack essential amenities, including restrooms for doctors, security personnel, and CCTV cameras.
India’s Supreme Court has addressed this issue, yet junior doctors believe its actions have not adequately ensured justice.
Reuters reported that the West Bengal government has been slow to establish new tribunals for these crimes. Additionally, it has failed to fulfill promises of improved safety measures made to doctors in 2019.
After the brutal gang rape and murder of a woman in New Delhi in 2012, India enacted stricter laws to protect women. However, activists argue that women continue to be victims of sexual violence. #IndianDoctorsProtest
Urgent Reforms Needed: Addressing Safety Concerns in the Indian Doctors Protest
Consequently, the Indian doctors protest shed light on the need for systemic changes. Many doctors still face challenges related to safety and working conditions. Therefore, this movement emphasizes the urgent need for reforms in healthcare across India.
