In a major development at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, over 45 senior doctors have tendered their resignation on October 8, 2024, expressing solidarity with junior doctors who are on a hunger strike. The junior medics launched a fast-unto-death protest on October 5, after accusing the West Bengal government of failing to meet their demands. These demands are linked to the justice movement following the brutal rape and murder of a trainee doctor in August within the hospital's premises.
The senior doctors, in their resignation letter, condemned the lack of progress in the investigation into the rape-murder case and urged the hospital administration to reconcile with the protesting junior doctors. The senior doctors emphasized that the deteriorating health of their colleagues on hunger strike required immediate government intervention, expressing deep concern about the situation. "We will consider individual resignations if necessary," read their statement.
The junior doctors initiated their protest by staging a sit-in at Dharmatala's Dorina Crossing on October 4, with a 24-hour ultimatum for the government to address their 10-point demand. As the state authorities missed the deadline, the junior medics escalated their protest into an indefinite hunger strike, aiming for justice for the victim and reform within the hospital system.
To ensure transparency, the protest site has been equipped with CCTV cameras. Despite resuming their duties, the junior doctors have vowed not to consume food until their demands are met.
The protest has drawn support from other medical organizations as well. The Joint Platform of Doctors (JPD), in a public statement, expressed full backing for the cause and called for solidarity from medical professionals across the state, including those in private practice.
The protests, continuing into the fourth day amid Durga Puja festivities, show no signs of abating, with further resignations and actions from both senior and junior doctors expected if the situation remains unresolved.