The West Bengal government ordered the transfer of 42 doctors on Saturday, a move that has sparked criticism and controversy amid the ongoing RG Kar movement. The transfers, announced through a Health Department notification dated August 15, have been met with allegations of political retribution from the medical community and opposition parties.
Critics argue that the mass transfer of doctors is a punitive response to their involvement in the protests led by medical students and junior doctors. The United Doctors Front Association (UDFA) condemned the decision, calling it an unjust action against those who supported the demonstration. “These punitive measures will not silence our demands for justice and security. We stand united and resolute in our fight,” the UDFA stated.
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The controversy has also drawn attention from national political figures. BJP National Spokesman Shehzad Poonawalla accused the Trinamool Congress government of retaliating against doctors who voiced concerns over a recent rape and murder incident involving a doctor. Poonawalla further alleged that the Kolkata Police are intimidating individuals who criticize the government on social media. “Everyone across the country is outrage and demanding justice for the victim. Instead of delivering justice, the Trinamool government seems more interested in protecting the accused,” Poonawalla wrote on X.
Moreover, in response to the situation, Trinamool Congress leaders, including Minister of State for Health Chandrima Bhattacharya, have declined to comment on the transfer orders. The move has intensified the debate over the government’s handling of the RG Kar movement and the broader issue of accountability and justice in the state.
