Northeast Desk, 16th August: The Indian Medical Association (IMA) Arunachal Pradesh Branch has called for a 24-hour shutdown of all routine medical services across the state in protest of the brutal rape and murder of a resident doctor at RG Kar Medical College in Kolkata. The shutdown will begin at 6 AM on August 17 and end at 6 AM on August 18, impacting OPD services, elective surgeries, and non-essential care in government and private hospitals, NGO-run institutions, and private clinics.
The decision reflects widespread outrage within the medical community over what they perceive as inadequate governmental response and the recent violent attacks on protesting junior doctors. The circular issued by Dr. Kesang Wangdi Thongdok, President of IMA Arunachal Pradesh, outlines several key demands:
- Immediate arrest and speedy trial of those responsible, with a call for maximum punishment.
- The creation of a central law to safeguard healthcare professionals from violence and harassment.
- Designation of all healthcare institutions as special protected zones.
- Strengthening of the National Medical Council’s role in enforcing safety regulations for medical students and practitioners nationwide.
The IMA’s action underscores a critical need for enhanced protection and legal measures to ensure the safety and security of medical professionals across India.