Richard Soriano
In response to the brutal rape and murder of a 31-year-old postgraduate medical student in Kolkata on August 9, junior doctors across India have staged protests and strikes demanding swift justice. Many have refused to treat non-emergency patients as part of their demonstrations, while street protests and candlelight marches have erupted in cities across the country.
In Kolkata, thousands of people gathered on Sunday chanting for justice, reflecting widespread anger against the crime and frustration with the government’s handling of violence against women.
The horrific crime occurred at the historic R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital, and it has drawn attention to the ongoing vulnerability of women in India despite legal reforms introduced after the infamous 2012 Delhi gang rape case.
Women’s rights activists have pointed out that despite tougher laws, the situation has not improved significantly, and the murder of the doctor has become a symbol of the continued failure to protect women in public spaces. The victim’s father has spoken out, expressing that the support of the protesting doctors has given him strength during this tragic time.
Authorities have arrested a police volunteer in connection with the crime, and his mother expressed deep regret over her son’s actions.
Meanwhile, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) has called for the implementation of strict security protocols in hospitals to ensure the safety of healthcare workers, especially women who make up a significant portion of the medical workforce. The IMA also wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging him to take action and protect medical staff from such incidents.
Despite the conclusion of a 24-hour strike organized by the IMA, protests and strikes have continued at various medical institutions. In Kolkata, protests at the R.G. Kar hospital have persisted for over a week, defying police orders against mass gatherings.
The government has called on doctors to return to work, particularly to address the growing number of dengue and malaria cases, and has proposed creating a committee to enhance security measures for healthcare workers.
While many doctors have returned to their duties, the All India Residents and Junior Doctors’ Joint Action Forum has vowed to continue their strike unless a thorough investigation is conducted within 72 hours.
In states like Gujarat, trainee doctors have continued to abstain from non-emergency duties, placing a heavy burden on the remaining medical staff. The ongoing protests reflect the broader concern for the safety of doctors and women in India, as well as a demand for tangible changes to prevent such crimes in the future.
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