Doctors in Punjab Protest, Shutting Down OPD Services in Government Hospitals
In Ludhiana, Punjab, doctors have completely shut down Outpatient Department (OPD) services in government hospitals and health centres starting Thursday. This protest is against the state government, demanding better security, more doctors, and increased Annual Confidential Reports (ACPs) for government doctors.
Protest March in Ludhiana
Doctors organized a protest march at the Civil Hospital in Ludhiana. Dr. Hardeep Kaur stated, “I think they (Punjab Government) have agreed to a lot of things, but we are waiting for confirmation of their return. If we get a return notice from their side, we will be very happy and appreciative. Safety of women doctors is our top priority, and I believe the government should also take action on this matter because it is very important.”
Frustration Over Lack of Written Assurances
Dr. Abhishek Mangala mentioned, “We had a meeting regarding the hartal, but no fruitful decision was reached. The government has not provided us with any written confirmation, so we will continue the march. This is our protest rally because our demands have not been met, and it will continue until they are addressed.”
Patients arriving at the hospital were visibly distressed by the sudden halt in services. The ongoing conflict between the government and doctors is significantly affecting the public.
Supreme Court’s Directive
Previously, on Monday, the Supreme Court ordered the immediate removal of all photos of the RG Kar rape and murder case victim from social media and instructed that no punitive actions be taken against doctors who return to work by 5 PM on September 10. However, the court also warned that failure to comply could result in disciplinary measures against the doctors.
Senior Advocate Geeta Luthra highlighted that doctors are facing threats. The Supreme Court also directed that necessary measures be taken to ensure the safety and security of doctors in hospitals, including providing adequate toilet facilities for both male and female staff.
Doubts Revealed
OPD Services -: OPD stands for Outpatient Department. It’s a part of the hospital where patients go to see doctors without staying overnight.
Government Hospitals -: These are hospitals run by the government where people can get medical treatment, often at a lower cost or for free.
Protest -: A protest is when people gather to show they are unhappy about something and want it to change.
State Government -: This is the government that runs a specific state in India, like Punjab, and takes care of local issues.
Security -: Security means measures taken to keep people safe from harm or danger.
Annual Confidential Reports (ACPs) -: These are reports that evaluate the performance of government employees, including doctors, every year.
Supreme Court -: The Supreme Court is the highest court in India. It makes important decisions that everyone in the country has to follow.
Victim Photos -: These are pictures of people who have been hurt or harmed. The court wants these photos removed from social media to protect their privacy.
Social Media -: Websites and apps like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram where people share information and photos.
Mandated -: Mandated means officially ordered or required by law or rules.
Distressed -: Distressed means very upset or worried.