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The ongoing protest by junior doctors at RG Kar Hospital in Kolkata took a significant turn on Tuesday as they defied a Supreme Court order to resume work by 5 PM. The doctors, who have been engaged in a 'cease work' protest since August 9th, remain adamant in their demand for justice for a post-graduate trainee who was found murdered in the hospital's seminar room. Despite the Supreme Court's intervention and the West Bengal government's assurance that no punitive action would be taken against the protesting doctors upon their return to duty, the junior doctors have refused to comply.
The Supreme Court had urged the protesting doctors to resume work, emphasizing that no adverse action would be taken against them upon their return. The West Bengal government also provided assurances, stating that no punitive transfers or other actions would be taken against the doctors. However, the doctors' demands go beyond assurances of safety. They are calling for the removal of several key officials, including the Kolkata Police Commissioner, the Health Secretary, the Director of Health Services, and the Director of Medical Education, by 5 PM on Tuesday. In the absence of these demands being met, the doctors have declared their intention to continue their 'cease work' protest.
The protest at RG Kar Hospital highlights a growing concern among junior doctors in India, who are facing challenges related to safety, working conditions, and access to justice within the healthcare system. The murder of the post-graduate trainee has sent shockwaves through the medical community, prompting calls for improved safety measures and a thorough investigation into the incident. The situation underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing the concerns of junior doctors, ensuring their safety and well-being, and fostering a more supportive and secure environment within hospitals.
Source: RG Kar: Doctors flout SC's direction to join duties by 5 PM, continue with 'cease work'