Guwahati, 16th August: The Junior Doctors’ Association of Gauhati Medical College & Hospital (GMCH) has announced the suspension of all non-emergency services starting today, in solidarity with the nationwide strike called by the Federation of Resident Doctors’ Association (FORDA) and other resident doctors’ organizations. The strike is in response to the recent brutal rape and murder of a second-year postgraduate doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata, followed by violent attacks on doctors protesting the incident.
The association, which comprises senior residents, junior residents, and interns, clarified that emergency services will remain operational to ensure critical care continues uninterrupted. However, routine outpatient services, elective surgeries, and other non-emergency procedures will be halted until further notice.
Key Demands of the Strike:
- CBI Investigation: The junior doctors are demanding a thorough investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) into the horrific incident at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, including the prompt arrest of those involved in the attacks.
- Accountability of Officials: They are calling for the resignation of responsible officials at RG Kar Medical College, to be followed by a CBI interrogation and prosecution if found guilty of any negligence or wrongdoing.
- Central Protection Act Implementation: A major demand is for the central government to provide a written commitment to implement the Central Protection Act (CPA) for healthcare professionals. This includes establishing a nationally representative body to ensure the safety and security of medical workers across the country.
Dr. Kumarjyoti Deka, President of the Junior Doctors’ Association at GMCH, expressed the collective frustration of the medical community. “The recent events have highlighted a severe lapse in administrative accountability. Our actions are a call for justice and enhanced protection for healthcare workers, who should never have to fear for their lives while serving the public.”
The strike underscores the growing unrest among medical professionals across India, who are increasingly concerned about their safety in the workplace. As the situation unfolds, the medical community and the general public will be closely watching for responses from the government and law enforcement agencies.
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