The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has declared a 24-hour nationwide hunger strike on October 15. This action supports doctors in West Bengal seeking justice for a young doctor who was raped and murdered at R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata.
The announcement comes as junior doctors at the hospital entered the ninth day of a fast-unto-death agitation. Three doctors have been hospitalized so far.
Nationwide Fasting Planned
IMA’s Junior Doctors Network (JDN) and Medical Students Network will lead the protest. The doctors will fast from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on October 15, across medical campuses. IMA’s statement urges junior doctors and Resident Doctors’ Associations (RDA) to support local actions as well.
The IMA has appealed to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to address the doctors’ demands. IMA National President RV Asokan met the fasting doctors. Its Bengal unit has been fasting in solidarity.
Private Hospitals Plan Partial Strike
Doctors in private hospitals across West Bengal have announced a partial cease-work for 48 hours. The strike will start at 6 a.m. on October 14 and end at 6 a.m. on October 16. Only emergency medical services will remain functional during this time.
IMA has called for participation from its members across India, asking for the protest to be held near medical colleges or campus areas.
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