The West Bengal Junior Doctors’ Forum (WBJDF) has announced a complete resumption of its cease-work protest across the state, effective Tuesday, following unresolved safety issues stemming from the recent rape-murder case involving a medical student at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital.
In a statement released this morning, the WBJDF reiterated that their full strike will persist until the government addresses their 10 key demands, focusing on enhanced safety measures, improved patient services, and an end to the pervasive atmosphere of fear affecting healthcare professionals.
This announcement comes on the heels of a significant Supreme Court hearing related to the case.
Previously, the junior doctors had suspended their cease-work on 19 September, encouraged by assurances from the state government regarding heightened security protocols in medical institutions.
WBJDF Disappointed By Lack Of Progress On Doctors’ Safety
However, the WBJDF expressed disappointment, citing a lack of tangible progress toward creating a secure working environment.
They highlighted a recent attack on junior doctors at the School of Medicine & Sagore Dutta Hospital in Kamarhati, North 24 Parganas, as a stark reminder of the ongoing threats they face.
The WBJDF stated, “In this situation, we are compelled to return to a full cease-work starting today. Unless we receive clear action from the government on safety, patient services, and the politics of fear, we will have no choice but to continue our full strike.”
Among their demands are a thorough judicial process to ensure justice for the victim of the recent crime, the immediate dismissal of the state health secretary, and the establishment of a centralized referral system along with a digital monitoring system for bed vacancies.
Additionally, the junior doctors are calling for the creation of task forces in each medical college, featuring elected junior doctor representation, increased police presence in hospitals, and the filling of vacant medical positions.
Moreover, they are advocating for inquiry committees at both the college and state levels to investigate individuals involved in threatening healthcare workers and to hold them accountable.
The final components of their demands include the prompt organization of student council elections in every medical college and an investigation into alleged corruption within the West Bengal Medical Council and the West Bengal Health Recruitment Board.
The WBJDF’s decision to escalate their protest underscores the urgent need for reforms and protections within the healthcare system, as junior doctors seek to ensure a safe and conducive working environment for themselves and their patients.
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