IMA Announces 24-Hour Shutdown of Non-Emergency Medical Services in Protest

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has announced a 24-hour nationwide withdrawal of non-emergency services starting from 6 am on August 17. This protest is in response to the alleged rape and murder of a trainee woman doctor at R G Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata, followed by vandalism at the facility. Essential services and casualty wards will remain operational, but out-patient departments (OPD) and elective surgeries will not be conducted.

Protest Against Violence

The IMA's decision came after discussions with its state branches. The association condemned the vandalism at the Kolkata hospital, where doctors have been protesting since August 9. "Authorities, who by their negligence had allowed such a heinous crime to happen, have once again failed to maintain law and order when an all-important CBI investigation is going on," the IMA stated.

Doctors, especially women, face significant risks due to their profession. The IMA stressed that it is the responsibility of authorities to ensure the safety of healthcare workers within hospital premises. "Both physical assaults and crimes are a result of indifference and insensitivity of the authorities concerned to the needs of doctors, nurses and other healthcare workers," it added.

Details of Vandalism

According to Kolkata Police, around 40 individuals posing as protestors entered the hospital premises, causing extensive damage. They vandalised property, pelted stones at police personnel, and destroyed several CCTV cameras. The miscreants also overturned a police vehicle and damaged several two-wheelers. Some police officers sustained injuries during the incident.

The IMA expressed concern over the potential loss of crucial evidence due to this violence. "Such vandalism with impunity points to anarchy and the breaking down of law and order," it said in a statement.

Transfer of Investigation

The investigation into the trainee doctor's death has been transferred from Kolkata Police to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) following orders from the Calcutta High Court. The IMA highlighted that maintaining law and order is crucial during this critical investigation phase.

The call for nationwide withdrawal aims to draw attention to the urgent need for better protection for medical professionals. The IMA emphasised that modern medicine doctors across all sectors would participate in this protest.

This protest underscores the ongoing challenges faced by healthcare workers in India. Ensuring their safety is paramount for maintaining a functional healthcare system.