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The tragic death of a young female doctor in Kolkata has ignited a fierce protest by her colleagues, with doctors across the state engaging in a hunger strike demanding justice and addressing systemic issues within the healthcare system. The protest has entered its second week, with the number of fasting doctors growing to ten. The doctors, hailing from various medical institutions, are demanding immediate action from the West Bengal government, highlighting their concerns over the safety and working conditions of medical professionals.
The hunger strike has taken a toll on the health of the protesting doctors, with several experiencing declining health parameters. One doctor, Aniket Mahato, was rushed to the critical care unit of R.G. Kar Hospital after his health deteriorated. While he is responding to treatment, his condition remains critical, emphasizing the dire consequences of the ongoing protest. Meanwhile, the families of the fasting doctors have reported facing pressure from the police to persuade their loved ones to end the strike. Allegations of police intimidation have further heightened tensions and fueled anger among the medical community.
In the face of this escalating situation, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) has urged West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to intervene and address the doctors' demands. The Federation of All India Medical Associations (FAIMA) has issued a stern warning of a nationwide medical shutdown if any harm befalls the protesting doctors. This underscores the gravity of the situation and the growing pressure on the government to address the concerns of the medical community. The doctors' demands encompass a range of critical issues, including the establishment of a centralized referral system, increased police protection in hospitals, and the rapid filling of vacant healthcare positions.
The tragic murder of the young doctor and the subsequent protests have brought to light the deeply rooted problems within the Indian healthcare system. The lack of adequate security, inadequate staffing, and systemic issues within the healthcare infrastructure have become increasingly evident. The government faces a significant challenge in addressing the concerns raised by the doctors and finding a resolution that ensures the safety and well-being of healthcare professionals while also improving the quality of care provided to patients.
Source: Kolkata doctor rape and murder: Two more doctors join fast-unto-death as strike completes first week