In a controversial move, 43 government doctors have been transferred in West Bengal, sparking allegations from the BJP that this is a retaliatory action by the state government. The doctors were reportedly vocal in their support of the protests following the rape and murder of a junior doctor at R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital. The transfers were announced by the state health and family welfare department on Friday through an official notification.
The BJP has accused the Mamata Banerjee-led government of punishing these doctors for standing up against the alleged negligence and mismanagement at R.G. Kar Hospital. BJP state president Sukanta Majumdar criticized the decision, describing it as a "vindictive measure." He further alleged that the government is trying to silence those who demand justice and safety for women in hospitals.
On the other hand, the state's Minister of State for Health, Chandrima Bhattacharya, claimed she was unaware of the transfer orders. She declined to comment further on the issue, stating that she had no information about it.
The central BJP leadership also reacted strongly to the transfers. Party spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla likened the action to the tactics of authoritarian regimes, accusing the West Bengal government of stifling dissent.
In response, the United Doctors Front Association issued a statement condemning the transfers, describing them as "punitive" and reaffirming their commitment to continue fighting for justice and safety. The Association of Health Service Doctors also expressed concern over the transfers, questioning why such orders were issued amidst an ongoing protest for better working conditions and promotion delays.
