The hunger strike by junior doctors in Kolkata, protesting the horrific rape and murder of a colleague at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, has now entered its tenth day.
Tensions are high as various doctors’ associations and the West Bengal government prepare for a critical meeting today aimed at resolving the crisis.
As the protest continues, the number of junior doctors actively participating in the hunger strike has dwindled to six.
Late Sunday night, doctors admitted Pulastya Acharya, a striking doctor, to the hospital due to a significant decline in his health caused by prolonged fasting. He arrived around 11 PM after experiencing intense stomach pain and vomiting, symptoms frequently linked to extended fasting.
Acharya’s hospitalization marks the fourth incident of a junior doctor admitted due to health complications from the strike.
Aniket Mahato from RG Kar, Anustup Mukhopadhyay from Calcutta Medical College & Hospital, and Aloke Verma from North Bengal Medical College & Hospital in Siliguri have also faced serious health issues during the protest.
A pivotal meeting is likely for today at 12:30 PM at Swasthya Bhavan, the state health department’s headquarters in Salt Lake.
This gathering will involve representatives from various doctors’ associations, including the Indian Medical Association (IMA), and West Bengal Chief Secretary Manoj Pant, who aims to address the ongoing stalemate surrounding the tragic incident that triggered the agitation.
In a show of solidarity, doctors from several private hospitals have initiated a partial cease-work, which began at 6 AM this morning and will last until 6 AM Wednesday.
During this time, only emergency medical services will be operational, highlighting the seriousness of the situation and the doctors’ commitment to their cause.
Medical reports indicate that Acharya’s health has deteriorated due to imbalances in his sodium-potassium levels and acid-base, conditions typically associated with prolonged fasting.
He remains under intravenous saline treatment as doctors continue to monitor his condition closely.
According to a representative from the West Bengal Junior Doctors’ Front (WBJDF), the organization leading the protest, the situation is still critical, and they are determined to push for justice in light of the recent tragedy.
The coming hours and the results of the scheduled meeting will be crucial in determining the future of the protest and the health of the participating doctors.
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