Junior doctors hunger strike enters 13th day in Kolkata

The hunger strike by junior doctors in Kolkata has now entered its 13th day, igniting a significant outcry for justice and increased workplace safety following the tragic rape and murder of a postgraduate trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. This strike not only reflects the doctors' grief but also their determination to address systemic issues regarding safety in healthcare settings.

According to Dr. Suvendu Mallik, the situation has worsened, with six doctors requiring hospitalization due to severe health complications related to the ongoing hunger strike. Presently, eight doctors are on indefinite hunger strike at the Esplanade protest site, committed to advocating for their slain colleague and ensuring that similar incidents do not occur in the future.

The striking doctors have made several crucial demands aimed at improving conditions within the healthcare system. They are calling for the immediate removal of the state health secretary, N.S. Nigam, citing a lack of accountability and inadequate responses to their safety concerns. Furthermore, they are urging the government to establish a centralized referral system for all hospitals and medical colleges in West Bengal to facilitate better patient management and improve response times during emergencies.

In addition to these demands, the doctors seek the implementation of a comprehensive monitoring system for bed availability, which would help in managing patient loads more effectively. They are also advocating for the creation of a task force responsible for enhancing essential facilities, such as installing CCTV cameras, ensuring the availability of on-call rooms, and improving restroom facilities for staff and patients alike.

The junior doctors have also highlighted the urgent need for increased police presence in hospitals to ensure safety and security. They are calling for the appointment of permanent female police officers in medical institutions to provide a supportive environment for female staff and patients. Moreover, the protesters are demanding the expedited hiring of doctors, nurses, and other healthcare personnel to fill the numerous vacant positions in hospitals.

This ongoing hunger strike follows a previous 42-day strike that ended on September 21, 2024, after the state government assured the doctors of addressing their grievances. As the hunger strike continues, the junior doctors' plight has garnered widespread attention, emphasizing the urgent need for comprehensive reforms in the healthcare sector to protect both medical professionals and patients from violence and neglect.