Kolkata Medic Rape-Murder: Despite SC Appeal, West Bengal Docs Continue Strike; Healthcare Hit

As junior doctors continue their 'ceasework' against the RG Kar rape and murder case for the 15th consecutive day, the healthcare sector in Bengal suffers majorly due to lack of medical services.

The doctors protest in West Bengal against the alleged rape and murder of a 31-year-old medic at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, Kolkata enters the 15th consecutive day. Healthcare service have not yet resumed in full swing and this has the healthcare sector of the state severely affected. Despite the Supreme Court's recent appeal to the doctors to resume their services immediately, the doctors have not ceased the protests in their demand for justice for the victim. One of the doctors at RG Kar told the media in a statement that they will not stop their protests and demonstrations until their demands are fulfilled and the culprits are punished. The Supreme Court stated to the doctors that, "justice and medicine" cannot be ceased and that not coercive action will be taken against the protesting doctors.

As the ceasework continues, reports say that the flow of patients at government-run hospitals have dried up and reduced significantly. The outpatient departments are open and are being manned by senior doctors however, the agitation has significantly reduced the number of daily patients.

Which Services Are Hit?

Services at the state-run hospitals continue to face problems because of the ongoing protests. This is now the 15th day of protests. Doctors say that the OPD services are open. On the first few days of protests, the the out-patient departments witnessed a heavy rush of patient's with senior doctors trying to handle the situation. Senior doctors are on duty in place for the junior doctors who are leading the protest marches in the state.

What Are The Demands Of The Doctors As They Continue Their Protests?

Here's what the doctors demand from the government:

1. The first and foremost demand is for justice for the trainee doctor who was allegedly raped and murdered.
2. They are also pressing for the removal of several officials who are still working at the Medical College and Hospital.
3. Workplace security and protection for doctors.

Developments That Have Taken Place During The Protests

What developments have taken place in the healthcare departments of Bengal since the protests began?

1. Three officials from RG Kar hospital have been transferred by the state government.
2. The state also cancelle4d the posting of tis former principal Sandip Ghosh to the Calcutta Medical College and Hospital (CNMC).
3. Three senior officials from the facility have been transferred to other hospitals under the state government.