In an unexpected move, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee visited the protest site of junior doctors outside the Swasthya Bhawan in Kolkata on Saturday, urging them to return to work amid their ongoing demonstration. The protest, which began in response to the tragic rape and murder of a trainee woman doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, has been a significant issue in the city, drawing both public and political attention.
During her visit, Banerjee addressed the agitating doctors, expressing empathy for their plight. “I have spent sleepless nights as you have been protesting on the road amid rain. I assure you that I will study your demands and take action if someone is found guilty,” she stated. Banerjee, speaking as their ‘Didi’ rather than the Chief Minister, acknowledged their grievances and promised to seek justice.
“I understand the purpose of your protest. I was also a students’ leader. I will give you justice. Seniors (doctors) won’t be able to work without your assistance, I urge you to resume work. I assure you that no action will be taken against you,” Banerjee added. Her visit was aimed at de-escalating the situation and encouraging the doctors to return to their duties.
Despite Banerjee’s assurances, the protesting doctors remained resolute. They insisted on a thorough discussion of their demands before they would consider ending their strike. Their protest, which has been ongoing for five days, continues to disrupt healthcare services across the state.
The doctors’ demands include the suspension of Kolkata Police Commissioner Vineet Goyal, Health Secretary NS Nigam, the Director of Health Services, and the Director of Medical Education. They accuse these officials of failing in their duties related to the RG Kar incident. Additionally, they are calling for enhanced safety and security measures for women health professionals throughout the state.
Last week, the junior doctors also reached the gates of the state secretariat, Nabanna, but refused to engage in talks with the state government, citing unmet demands for live streaming of the meeting. This refusal to negotiate further compounded the tension and extended the duration of their protest.
The ongoing demonstration has brought the issue of safety for medical professionals into sharp focus and has put significant pressure on the state government to address the concerns raised by the protesting doctors. As the situation develops, the response from both the state government and the protesting doctors will be closely watched by both local and national observers.
