Mamata Banerjee Urges Doctors to Return to Work Amid RG Kar Medical College Tragedy

Howrah (West Bengal) [India], September 12: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has called on protesting doctors to resume their duties, emphasizing her commitment to justice for the RG Kar Medical College rape-murder victim and the treatment of ordinary citizens.

Chief Minister’s Appeal

During a press conference, Banerjee expressed her willingness to resign from her position if it meant achieving justice for the victim and ensuring medical services for the public. She assured that no action would be taken against the protesting doctors.

“I am ready to resign from the Chief Minister of West Bengal. I am not concerned about the post. I want justice for the victim, I am only concerned about ordinary people getting medical service,” Banerjee stated.

Efforts to Resolve the Deadlock

Banerjee detailed her attempts to engage with the junior doctors, including waiting for three days for them to come forward and discuss their issues. Despite the Supreme Court’s directive for doctors to return to work, she noted that no disciplinary action had been taken against them.

“We want justice for the victim. We want justice for the common people. We want justice for the treatment of common people. We want that, as per Supreme Court instruction, they must join their duty,” she said.

Challenges in Communication

Banerjee explained that live-streaming the discussions, as requested by the doctors, was not possible due to the ongoing legal proceedings. She emphasized the importance of open dialogue to resolve the situation.

“We were waiting for the doctors for 2 hours 10 minutes. We had urged the protesting doctors to come with an open mind. The deadlock can be resolved through talks only,” she added.

Impact on Healthcare

The Chief Minister highlighted the severe impact of the protest on healthcare services, with 27 people having died and over 7 lakh people not receiving medical care. She also mentioned the significant increase in medical colleges and super-speciality hospitals under her administration.

“We have built 43 super-speciality hospitals. Many people are dead in homes without treatment. SC said that after the deadline, the state can take action. Still, we called them. Many senior doctors are working under difficult conditions. Today we were hoping for a breakthrough. We have again forgiven them,” Banerjee concluded.

Background of the Incident

The protest was sparked by the tragic rape and murder of a second-year postgraduate medical student inside the seminar hall of RG Kar Medical College on August 9.