In a striking and unprecedented demonstration of solidarity, more than 45 senior doctors and faculty members affiliated with RG Kar Medical College and Hospital have made the bold decision to collectively resign. This remarkable action comes in response to the ongoing protests spearheaded by their junior colleagues, who are advocating against the horrific rape and murder of a trainee doctor that tragically occurred on the hospital premises in August of this year. The senior doctors' resignations serve not only as a protest against the brutal incident but also as a powerful statement underscoring the urgent need for reform and enhanced safety measures within the medical institution.
On Tuesday, the senior doctors officially submitted their mass resignations, expressing deep concern that the demands put forth by their junior colleagues had not been sufficiently addressed by either the hospital administration or government authorities. In their resignation letters, they articulated their frustration regarding what they perceive as a significant lack of progress in the investigation into the tragic case involving the murdered trainee doctor. Additionally, they strongly urged the administration of RG Kar hospital to engage in meaningful and constructive dialogue with the protesting junior doctors, who have resorted to an extreme form of protest by initiating a 'fast-unto-death' hunger strike in their quest for justice and accountability.
"The health of the protesting doctors who are currently sitting on hunger strike is deteriorating," the senior doctors emphasized in their heartfelt communication to the hospital administration. They highlighted the urgent necessity for immediate reconciliation between the government and the junior doctors involved in the hunger strike, drawing attention to the critical state of health and well-being of the protesting individuals. The senior doctors firmly stated, "We senior doctors of RG Kar Medical College and Hospital are giving mass resignation as the government seems to be oblivious to the deteriorating condition of the doctors on hunger strike, and if the situation demands, we will also go for individual resignation." This resolute statement underscores their commitment to standing by their junior colleagues and advocating for the pressing issues at hand.
In a further display of unity, another influential organization, the Joint Platform of Doctors (JPD), has also publicly issued a statement expressing their unwavering support for the junior doctors and their ongoing protests. Doctors Punyabrata Gun and Hiralal Konar, joint convenors of the JPD, indicated that many faculty members and senior doctors currently working in government service have expressed their strong desire to submit mass resignations in light of the ongoing movement advocating for 'Justice for Abhaya' and opposing the alleged corruption and threats within the healthcare system. They stressed the vital importance of establishing a patient-friendly healthcare environment and ensuring democratic practices on campuses, especially during these tumultuous times that are fraught with challenges.
"Junior doctors are on hunger strike and have sat in demonstrations for the last five days for their demands," Gun and Konar pointed out. They expressed deep disappointment over the noticeable absence of a response from the appropriate authorities, warning that continued inaction could potentially lead to significant health crises for patients relying on medical care. In light of these grave circumstances, the Joint Platform of Doctors has made a commitment to stand in solidarity with their medical colleagues. They suggested that should medical teachers and government doctors choose to pursue mass resignations, they would fully support such an action. They also called upon their counterparts in private practice to take decisive and appropriate actions in support of the ongoing movement.
As the situation continues to escalate, junior doctors remain steadfast in their hunger strike for the fourth consecutive day on Tuesday, even amid the vibrant and festive atmosphere of Durga Puja celebrations. Their unwavering determination reflects the urgency of their demands for justice regarding the tragic fate of their fellow trainee doctor. In a powerful show of camaraderie and support, around 15 senior doctors have joined their junior colleagues in a symbolic hunger strike, further amplifying the call for justice and significant reform within the healthcare system. This growing movement highlights the deepening crisis and underscores the critical need for urgent governmental intervention to address the safety and security concerns of all medical professionals operating in the region. The collective actions taken by these dedicated doctors serve as a clarion call for change, demanding a safer and more just environment for both medical staff and patients alike.
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