Protests and Resignations as Tensions Rise in West Bengal Medical Institutions

A protest by junior doctors and others took place in Kolkata on October 8, 2024, in response to the alleged rape and murder of a woman doctor at R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital. This incident has sparked widespread unrest, leading to demands for justice and government intervention.

West Bengal Governor, C.V. Ananda Bose, addressing the state government, emphasized the critical nature of the incident. He urged the administration to take responsibility and apologize to the public. “If there is a responsible government in West Bengal, make amends and apologize,” said Governor Bose. He stressed that, “when the Government fails to serve the people, people will serve notice.”

Approximately 50 senior doctors from various medical colleges in West Bengal have reportedly submitted resignations in solidarity with the protesting junior doctors who have been on a hunger strike. This move indicates a significant escalation in the medical community’s efforts to pressurize the government into taking action.

Amidst these developments, West Bengal Chief Secretary, Manoj Pant, appealed to the agitating medical professionals to end their hunger strike and return to work. He assured that efforts are ongoing to improve hospital working environments, including addressing security concerns through new safety measures like CCTV installation.

Despite the resignations, healthcare services in West Bengal remained operational. According to an official from the state health department, “No official communication regarding the mass resignations has been received. Healthcare services were not disrupted since no doctor was absent today.” This statement suggests that the operational capacity of hospitals has been maintained.

Doctors from regions such as North Bengal Medical College in Siliguri joined the protest, submitting their resignations in support. “We, the teachers of North Bengal Medical College, are dismayed and discouraged to continue our services under such oppressive circumstances,” their letter stated, urging state authorities to address the ongoing crisis.

Dr. Sunit Hazra of RG Kar Medical College explained that the resignations were symbolic, aimed at prompting the government to engage in discussions. “We do not want the patients to suffer,” Dr. Hazra clarified, indicating the doctors’ commitment to patient care despite their protest.

Dr. Hiralal Konar, joint convener of the doctors’ platform, noted the importance of this protest to force meaningful government action. “The senior doctors have realized that only mass resignation could move the state government. We are waiting for the state government to come forward and address the issues as soon as possible,” he stated.

The protest follows the tragic incident at RG Kar Medical College, which occurred in August, involving the alleged rape and murder of a female doctor. In line with Supreme Court rulings on sexual assault cases, the victim’s identity remains undisclosed to protect her privacy.