Kolkata Rape-Murder: IMA Stages 24-Hour Nationwide Strike, Hospital OPDs Shut | Key Updates

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) announced a 24-hour nationwide withdrawal of non-emergency medical services on August 17, 2024, in protest against the brutal rape and murder of a trainee woman doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata.

This action highlights their grave concerns over the safety of healthcare professionals and the conditions under which they work.

Photo Credit: PTI

Five Key Demands of the IMA:

Overhaul of Working and Living Conditions:
The IMA demanded a comprehensive review and improvement of the working and living conditions for resident doctors.

This includes addressing the excessive 36-hour duty shifts that doctors often endure and ensuring the availability of safe and adequate resting spaces.

The victim in this tragic incident was on such a grueling shift when she was attacked.

Central Legislation to Protect Healthcare Workers:
The IMA urged the government to pass a central act that would incorporate the amendments made in 2023 to the Epidemic Diseases Act of 1897 into the proposed Hospital Protection Bill of 2019.

The association believes this would strengthen the existing protective laws in 25 states.

They also suggested implementing an ordinance similar to the one enacted during the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure the safety of healthcare professionals.

Thorough and Timely Investigation of the Crime:
The doctors' body called for a meticulous, professional investigation of the crime within a specified timeframe to ensure justice is served.

They also demanded the identification and exemplary punishment of those involved in the vandalism of the RG Kar hospital premises on the night of August 14, 2024.

Enhanced Security Protocols for Hospitals:
The IMA demanded that hospital security protocols should be as stringent as those at airports.

They called for hospitals to be declared safe zones with mandatory security measures, including the installation of CCTV cameras and the deployment of security personnel.

Compensation for the Victim's Family:
The association demanded appropriate and dignified compensation for the bereaved family, reflecting the cruelty of the crime committed against the victim.

Latest Developments in the Kolkata Doctor's Case:

24-Hour Service Withdrawal:
The IMA announced that all modern medicine doctors across India would withdraw services for 24 hours, affecting outpatient departments (OPDs) and elective surgeries.

However, emergency services and casualties will continue to operate during this period.

Nationwide Protests:
Thousands of doctors protested across various cities, including New Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Hyderabad, demanding justice and improved security at medical facilities.

Demonstrators carried signs calling for accountability in the woman's rape and killing.

Dissatisfaction Among Junior Doctors:
Junior doctors at RG Kar Medical College, Rumalika Kumar and Riya Bera, expressed dissatisfaction with the ongoing investigation, noting a lack of transparency and clarity.

They demanded the immediate arrest of all culprits, proper evidence, and accountability from higher authorities.

Arrests Related to Vandalism:
The Kolkata Police reported the arrest of 25 individuals connected to the vandalism at the RG Kar Hospital on August 14, where the protest site and public property were damaged.

Political Responses:
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee accused the Left and the BJP of creating unrest in the state.

Meanwhile, the BJP Mahila Morcha held a silent candlelight march in Kolkata, led by their national president, Vanathi Srinivasan, demanding justice for the victim.