RG Kar protest: Hunger strike by junior doctors enters day 15

Kolkata: The hunger strike by junior doctors protesting the horrific rape and murder of their colleague at R. G. Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata has reached its 15th day as of Saturday.

In a show of solidarity, a large rally will be held on Saturday, starting from the home of the victim in Panihati, North 24 Parganas, and proceeding to Esplanade, where junior doctors are continuing their hunger strike.

The West Bengal Junior Doctors' Forum (WBJDF), which represents the junior doctors leading the protests, has invited the public to join the rally. They also announced that demonstrations will take place at every medical college and hospital across the state, both public and private, to support their demands.

On Friday night, the WBJDF warned the state government that they would resume a complete cease-work protest if their demands are not met by October 21. This decision was made after discussions with senior colleagues.

It remains to be seen whether the state government will initiate fresh talks with the protesting doctors to resolve the ongoing stalemate, which began when the body of the rape and murder victim was found on August 9.

Meanwhile, sources in the state secretariat reported that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee held meetings with various state officials on Friday, particularly those in the Health Department, to discuss the progress of infrastructure upgrades at state-run medical colleges and hospitals.

The Chief Minister emphasised that any pending work should be completed by October 25. A crucial hearing is scheduled in the Supreme Court after the Diwali vacation, during which the state government is expected to present a report on security and infrastructure improvements at the medical institutions.

Agency