The hunger strike by a group of junior doctors protesting the brutal rape and murder of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College & Hospital has reached its 14th day on Friday. The strike has gained increasing support from the public and professionals from various fields.
In a show of solidarity, members of two prominent cultural and literary groups in West Bengal have announced a token 12-hour hunger strike. One of these groups plans to organize a cultural program at the hunger strike site in Esplanade, central Kolkata, to further express their support for the fasting doctors.
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“Our strength lies in the overwhelming support from the people. It has allowed us to sustain our movement and push for our demands,” said a representative from the West Bengal Junior Doctors Front, the umbrella organization leading the protest.
Government Meeting Scheduled
Amid the ongoing protest, a crucial meeting has been convened by the West Bengal government, chaired by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. The meeting aims to review the progress of security and infrastructure upgrades at state-run medical colleges and hospitals, as mandated by the Supreme Court.
Current Status of the Hunger Strike
Eight junior doctors continue their hunger strike, with seven located at Esplanade and one at North Bengal Medical College & Hospital in Siliguri. Since the strike on October 5, six doctors hospitalized due to deteriorating health conditions.
Aniket Mahato, the first to require hospitalization, discharge on Thursday afternoon but advise to adhere to strict medical and dietary guidelines and refrain from fasting.
The protest further highlights growing concerns over the safety and security of medical professionals in the region, as the junior doctors demand urgent reforms and better protection measures.
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