Junior Doctors in Kolkata Initiate Fast Unto Death Amidst Protests Ahead of Durga Puja Festivities

Junior doctors in Kolkata have intensified their protest over the rape and murder of a colleague at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. They began a hunger strike on Saturday evening, claiming the West Bengal government failed to meet their demands. The protest comes just days before the Durga Puja festivities begin, highlighting the urgency of their cause.

On Friday, the doctors staged a sit-in at Dorina Crossing in Dharmatala, setting a 24-hour deadline for the government to respond. When the deadline passed without action, they escalated to a fast unto death. "We have installed CCTV cameras at the dais to ensure transparency," said a junior doctor. Six doctors are currently participating in the hunger strike.

Protest Demands and Support

The protesting doctors have outlined several demands, including justice for their deceased colleague. They are also calling for the removal of Health Secretary NS Nigam and accountability for alleged administrative failures within the Health Department. Other demands include a centralised referral system for hospitals, a bed vacancy monitoring system, and task forces for essential provisions like CCTV and on-call rooms.

Support from the public has been significant, with many people and some celebrities joining the protest site. "We have the support of the people, and that is why we are not scared of any hindrances by the administration," said one of the junior doctors. The state government will be held responsible if any doctor falls ill during the fast.

Police Involvement and Allegations

The junior doctors had previously called off a total cease work that disrupted healthcare services at state-run medical facilities. However, they allege police interference during their protests. On Friday night, they claimed police baton-charged them and initially denied permission for their sit-in due to traffic concerns.

Kolkata Police responded by asking protesters to identify involved officers and file complaints. "With reference to the allegation of physical assault, the matter is being enquired," stated an email from Kolkata Police. They promised necessary action following formal complaints.

Background and Ongoing Efforts

The protest follows a tragic incident on August 9 when a fellow medic was raped and murdered at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The junior doctors went on cease work after this incident but ended their strike on September 21 after receiving assurances from the state government that their demands would be addressed.

Their ongoing efforts include advocating for increased police protection in hospitals, recruiting permanent women police personnel, and filling vacant positions for healthcare workers promptly. These measures aim to improve safety and working conditions in medical institutions across West Bengal.

The junior doctors remain steadfast in their resolve to continue their hunger strike until all demands are met. Their actions underscore a broader call for systemic changes within the state's healthcare sector to prevent future tragedies.