Deadline Set: Bengal Government Calls Agitating Doctors To Mamata Banerjee’s Residence at 5 PM

The West Bengal government has once again invited junior doctors to meet with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee at her residence in Kolkata. The meeting is set for 5 pm today, according to an email from Chief Secretary Manoj Pant.

Final Invitation for Talks

In the email, Pant mentioned that this is the fifth and final invitation extended to the agitating doctors. He clarified that there would be no live streaming or videography of the meeting due to the matter being sub judice in the Supreme Court. However, the minutes will be recorded and signed by both parties.

"This is the fifth and the final time we are reaching out to you for a meeting between the honourable CM and the delegates. In line with our discussion the day before (Saturday), we are once again inviting you for the meeting with the CM at her Kalighat residence for discussions with an open mind," Pant wrote.

Doctors' Response Pending

The protesting doctors have yet to decide whether they will attend today's meeting. They stated they would discuss among themselves before announcing their decision. The delegation is expected to arrive at 4.45 pm if they choose to attend.

On Saturday, Mamata Banerjee made an unexpected visit to the protest site where junior doctors were demonstrating. She assured them that their demands would be addressed, but tensions rose when protesters claimed they were asked to leave after waiting three hours at her residence gates.

Protests Over Rape-Murder Case

The junior doctors have been protesting since August 9 following the rape and murder of a doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The victim was found in a seminar hall where she had gone to rest during a long shift.

During Saturday's visit, Banerjee urged the doctors not to insult her and offered tea and refreshments. However, they reportedly declined, stating they would have tea only after securing justice for their colleague.

Standoff Over Meeting Footage

A significant point of contention between the doctors and the government is over live streaming of meetings. While Banerjee's administration has refused live streaming, it agreed to video-record discussions. The doctors claimed officials were unwilling even to provide this footage.

The official communication emphasised that despite previous attempts, this invitation remains open for meaningful dialogue aimed at resolving ongoing issues.

The situation remains tense as both sides await further developments from today's scheduled meeting.