Bengal Junior Doctors to march Lalbazar on Sep 2 demanding resignation of CP

The West Bengal Junior Doctors’ Forum (WBJDF) has announced the continuation of its cease-work protest, which is now set to intensify with further actions planned. The forum is demanding the resignation of Kolkata Police Commissioner Vineet Goyal, amid growing unrest following the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at R G Kar Medical College and Hospital.

“The spirit of our movement is growing higher every day against all odds and threats! We will continue our cease work in the same form until our demands are met,” said a protestor and forum representative.

The forum has announced plans to march to the police headquarters in Lalbazar on September 2, signaling their determination to press their demands. Additionally, the WBJDF is reaching out to senior doctors, specialty associations, and doctors from private hospitals, urging them to participate in a pen-down protest scheduled for September 3.

Representatives of the WBJDF mentioned that any issues arising from the cease-work protest within institutions would be managed by the respective Resident Doctor’s Associations and bodies. However, they are also considering sending official letters to institutions as part of their protest strategy.

The forum also plans to support those facing difficulties with the Distance Residency Programme (DRP) by providing a specific letter format, which participants are required to sign and return to the WBJDF for further action.

Key demands from the WBJDF include identifying and punishing those involved in the R G Kar incident, suspending the former principal Dr. Sandip Ghosh, holding the Kolkata Police accountable for lapses, ending the "politics of fear" within medical institutions, ensuring democratic elections and participation in decision-making committees, and implementing adequate security measures for doctors.