Doctors across India have again stared a 24-hour shutdown of non-emergency medical services in response to the tragic rape and murder of a young doctor at the R G Kar Medical College in Kolkata.
The strike, which began at 6 a.m. on Saturday, has resulted in the suspension of elective procedures and out-patient services, as stated by the Indian Medical Association (IMA), a prominent organization representing doctors across the nation. Emergency services and casualty departments remain operational during the shutdown.
This nationwide protest was sparked by the horrific death of a 31-year-old trainee doctor, who was raped and murdered within the premises of the medical college where she worked. Outrage spread across the country, with the IMA taking the lead in organizing protests and demanding justice. During a press conference on Friday, the IMA outlined their demands, calling for a thorough investigation into the crime within a set timeframe.
"We demand a meticulous and professional investigation into the crime, with justice delivered promptly. The perpetrators of this heinous act must be identified, and exemplary punishment should be awarded. The family of the victim deserves appropriate and dignified compensation that reflects the severity of the brutality inflicted," the IMA said in their statement.
Furthermore, the association is urging immediate action to improve the safety and security of doctors, emphasizing that the medical community is also a victim of this senseless violence. The IMA is advocating for stronger measures to protect doctors and medical staff from such incidents.
In their call for action, the IMA is also pushing for the passage of a Central Act that incorporates the amendments made in 2023 to the Epidemic Diseases Act of 1897 into the proposed Hospital Protection Bill of 2019. This, they believe, would bolster existing laws in 25 states and provide enhanced protection for medical professionals.
"Hospitals should have security protocols similar to those in airports. Declaring hospitals as safe zones with mandatory security measures is an essential first step. This includes the installation of CCTVs, deployment of security personnel, and proper safety protocols," the IMA stated in an official release.
The association also brought attention to the severe working conditions faced by doctors. The victim had just completed a grueling 36-hour shift before the incident occurred. The IMA highlighted the lack of safe spaces and rest areas for resident doctors, demanding that these issues be addressed with urgency.
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