Resident Doctors' Strike Persists After Inconclusive Health Ministry Meeting

The Federation of Resident Doctors Association (FORDA) announced on Monday that its indefinite strike would continue. This decision followed an unsuccessful meeting with Union health ministry officials regarding the rape and murder of a trainee doctor in Kolkata.

Resident doctors from government hospitals nationwide began their indefinite strike on Monday. The strike, which paralysed elective services such as OPDs and non-emergency surgeries, was in response to the tragic incident at RG Kar Medical College.

Protest Demands and Continuation

Despite extensive discussions with the Union health ministers team, no resolution was reached. "I, along with the association members and doctors, met with the Union health ministers team on Monday. Since no resolution was reached regarding their demands, the strike will continue for another day," said FORDA President Dr Aviral Mathur.

FORDA's statement on Monday night confirmed the continuation of the strike due to the lack of a concrete resolution. Dr Mathur also clarified that emergency services would remain operational during the strike.

Key Issues and Demands

The association's demands include immediate acceptance of residents' concerns at RG Kar Medical College. They also seek guarantees against police brutality and respectful treatment of protesting doctors. Additionally, they demand prompt justice and compensation for the deceased individual's family involved in the dispute.

Furthermore, FORDA urges the Union government to implement comprehensive security measures for healthcare workers across all hospitals. An expert committee should be established to expedite the ratification of the Central Healthcare Protection Act with a clear timeline for its completion.

The indefinite strike by resident doctors continues as they await a satisfactory resolution to their demands. The situation remains tense as elective medical services are disrupted across the country.