Junior doctors in West Bengal have vowed to persist with their strike in protest of the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata, defying a Supreme Court ultimatum to resume work.
Hundreds of doctors, organized by the West Bengal Junior Doctors’ Front, are calling for enhanced security measures in hospitals and justice for the victim, whose body was discovered on August 9. The group, which represents around 7,000 doctors, stated that they would only comply with the court order if their demands are met. These demands include the installation of CCTV cameras, improved patient facilities, and the removal of Kolkata’s police chief.
Dr. Shubhendu Malik, a spokesperson for the junior doctors, criticized the lack of progress, stating, “We haven’t seen a single CCTV camera installed since the incident. There are no restrooms or separate toilets for men and women.”
The protests have garnered international attention, with demonstrations occurring in 25 countries, including the United States and Japan, as calls for justice resonate globally.
Rights activists argue that the case underscores persistent sexual violence against women in India, despite stricter laws implemented after the 2012 Delhi gang rape and murder.
A police volunteer has been arrested in connection with the crime, and the college’s former principal faces corruption charges.
The Supreme Court had warned of potential “adverse action” if doctors did not return to work by Tuesday.
