West Bengal Doctors’ Hunger Strike: IMA Urges Mamata Banerjee to Address Demands
The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has reached out to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, urging her to resolve issues with young doctors who have been on a hunger strike for nearly a week. The IMA emphasized that the West Bengal government can meet the doctors’ demands and highlighted the importance of a peaceful and secure environment.
The hunger strike, initiated by junior doctors from the West Bengal Junior Doctors Front, began on October 5 in Kolkata. The protest is in response to the RG Kar rape and murder case, with doctors demanding justice and reforms. Dr. Aqeeb, a junior doctor, stated that their primary demand is justice in the RG Kar case and the inclusion of student representatives in medical college committees.
Six doctors, including Snigdha Hazra, Tanaya Panja, Anustup Mukhopadhyay, Arnab Mukhopadhyay, Pulastha Acharya, and Sayantani Ghosh Hazra, are participating in the hunger strike. They have accused authorities of obstructing their protest by blocking essential supplies and using intimidation tactics.
The doctors’ demands include the removal of the health secretary and increased police protection in hospitals. The IMA has assured support and assistance to the West Bengal government in resolving the situation.
Doubts Revealed
IMA -: IMA stands for Indian Medical Association. It is a national organization of doctors in India that works to promote the medical profession and address issues faced by doctors.
Mamata Banerjee -: Mamata Banerjee is the Chief Minister of West Bengal, a state in India. She is a political leader and the head of the state government.
Hunger Strike -: A hunger strike is a form of protest where people refuse to eat to draw attention to their demands or grievances. It is often used to pressure authorities to take action.
RG Kar rape and murder case -: The RG Kar rape and murder case refers to a serious crime that happened at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in West Bengal. It has led to protests and demands for justice and safety reforms.
Junior Doctors -: Junior doctors are medical professionals who have completed their medical degree and are in the early stages of their careers, often working as interns or residents in hospitals.
Health Secretary -: The Health Secretary is a senior government official responsible for overseeing the health department and implementing health policies in a state or country.