Kolkata, West Bengal: In a major development related to the RG Kar Medical College rape and murder case, junior doctors from various medical institutions, under the banner of the West Bengal Junior Doctors Front (WBJDF), organized a protest march on Friday. The march, which began from Swasthya Bhawan in Salt Lake and culminated at the CGO Complex, was aimed at demanding a speedy investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
The tragic incident, which has sent shockwaves through the medical community, involved the brutal rape and murder of a female junior doctor at RG Kar Medical College. Despite initial arrests and probes by local authorities, many junior doctors feel that justice is being delayed and are calling for a more thorough investigation by the CBI to ensure accountability and a swift conclusion to the case.
Protest Demands Urgent CBI Action
The protest witnessed a significant turnout, with hundreds of junior doctors walking in solidarity, chanting slogans and holding placards that read “Justice for Our Colleague” and “Fast-Track the Investigation.” Speaking to the media, representatives from WBJDF expressed their dissatisfaction with the pace of the current investigation. They argued that only an independent and swift investigation by the CBI could provide the transparency and accountability needed in such a high-profile case.
“We are deeply concerned about the delay in the investigation. The case involves one of our colleagues, and it’s not just about justice for her but ensuring the safety of all medical professionals working across the state,” said a junior doctor participating in the protest.
Strike Called Off, Partial Services to Resume
Meanwhile, junior doctors have called off their strike, which had significantly impacted medical services across Kolkata. After days of deliberation and meetings with state health officials, the doctors announced that emergency services would resume from Saturday. However, they clarified that Outpatient Department (OPD) services would remain suspended until further notice. The decision to partially return to work comes as a relief to many patients who have been affected by the disruption of services.
“We have decided to resume emergency services because patients cannot be left unattended, but our protest for justice will continue,” said a spokesperson for WBJDF. “OPD services will remain suspended as we press on with our demand for the CBI to expedite the investigation.”
Government’s Response
The West Bengal government has assured the protesting doctors that all necessary steps are being taken to ensure a fair investigation. State health officials have stated that they are in constant communication with the CBI and are hopeful that the probe will gain momentum soon.
However, the assurance has done little to quell the anger among junior doctors, many of whom remain skeptical about the promises made by state authorities. They have vowed to continue their agitation until concrete action is taken.
Impact on Medical Services
While the resumption of emergency services is expected to ease the burden on healthcare facilities, the suspension of OPD services will continue to affect thousands of patients seeking routine medical care. Several hospitals in Kolkata, including RG Kar Medical College, have seen long queues of patients awaiting consultations, many of whom have been forced to seek care elsewhere due to the ongoing protests.
The RG Kar rape and murder case has not only shaken the medical community but has also raised serious concerns about the safety of women in the profession. Junior doctors are now pushing for stronger safety measures to be implemented in all medical institutions across the state.
As the investigation continues, all eyes are on the CBI to deliver timely justice in a case that has become a rallying point for medical professionals in West Bengal.
