Kolkata: Junior doctors in West Bengal have restarted their “total cease-work,” demanding enhanced security at state hospitals following the violent incident involving the rape and murder of a colleague at a Kolkata medical college.
The work suspension began at 10 am today, as the doctors claimed there has been no adequate response from the government to address their safety demands. They had partially returned to work on September 21 amid the state’s flood crisis, ending a 42-day strike in protest of the tragic incident at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital.
The renewed strike comes after another reported attack on medical staff at the Sagore Dutta Medical College and Hospital, where doctors were allegedly assaulted by relatives of a deceased patient. Dr. Aniket Mahato stated, “Today marks the 52nd day of our protest, and we continue to face assaults with no fulfillment of the promises made during our meetings with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Under these circumstances, we have no choice but to implement a full cease-work starting today.”
Additionally, the doctors are planning a significant protest rally in the city on October 2, coinciding with Gandhi Jayanti and Mahalaya, which ushers in the 10-day Durga Puja festival. During a recent hearing, the Supreme Court criticized the Bengal government regarding the implementation of security measures for doctors.
The government attributed the delays to the ongoing flood situation, informing the court that 26% of security enhancements have been completed and requesting an extension until October 15 to finish the remaining tasks, citing the necessity of following proper procedures in awarding contracts.
