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The ongoing standoff between the West Bengal government and protesting junior doctors has reached a critical juncture. The Mamata Banerjee government has extended its fifth invitation for talks with the doctors, who are demanding justice for the rape-murder of a 31-year-old medico at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The doctors have refused to return to work until their demands for justice and the removal of several top officials are met.
The previous meetings between the state government and the doctors were called off due to disagreements on several issues, most notably the live-streaming of the discussions. This has been a major point of contention, with the doctors seeking transparency and accountability. The government, however, has insisted on maintaining confidentiality during the talks.
In an email to the protesting doctors, Chief Secretary Manoj Pant has emphasized the urgency of the situation, urging them to resume their duties in line with the Supreme Court's September 9 directive. The email states that this is the 'fifth and final' attempt to reach a resolution through dialogue. The meeting is scheduled for 5 PM on September 16 at the Chief Minister's residence in Kalighat.
The letter reiterates the government's stance on live-streaming, stating that the meeting will not be videographed or live-streamed due to the case being sub judice. Instead, the minutes of the meeting will be recorded and signed by both parties. This suggests that the government remains committed to avoiding any potential legal complications and maintaining confidentiality during the negotiations.
The doctors' unwavering stance and the government's persistence in seeking a resolution through dialogue highlight the complexities of the situation. It remains to be seen whether this fifth meeting will yield a breakthrough and bring an end to the prolonged protest. The outcome will have significant implications for the healthcare system in West Bengal, particularly for the patients who are suffering due to the ongoing strike.
Source: "Reaching Out For Fifth, Final Time": Mamata Banerjee Invites Doctors For Meet