Today, On 9th September, The Indian Medical Association (IMA) pledged to stand by the striking doctors in Bengal, despite the Supreme Court’s directive for them to return to duty. The protests are centered around the RG Kar doctor death case, with the IMA strongly criticizing the court’s decision and the accusations against junior doctors.
New Delhi: The Indian Medical Association’s (IMA) West Bengal chapter reaffirmed its strong support for the ongoing doctors’ strike, despite the Supreme Court’s directive ordering them to return to duty by 5 PM on Tuesday.
The protests stem from the brutal rape and murder of a postgraduate doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata.
The IMA voiced its disappointment with both the Supreme Court’s proceedings and the handling of the case by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
The association stated, “It was totally disheartened” by the court’s decision, which mandates doctors to resume work with assurances that no punitive action will be taken if they comply.
The IMA further criticized the court’s portrayal of junior doctors, stating,
“It was shocking to note that the Hon’ble Supreme Court has asked the junior doctors, who are the forerunners of this protest, to return to work by 5 PM tomorrow.”
They emphasized that the claim junior doctors were responsible for hospital deaths during the strike is “totally false,” adding that no hospital services were completely disrupted.
Defending the protests, the IMA highlighted that junior doctors are fighting for both “speedy and fair justice for the heinous crime against Abhaya” and against the systemic corruption within the healthcare sector.
The IMA vowed unwavering support, declaring,
“The protest will not die down… it will become stronger in the coming days, and we will leave no stone unturned until justice is achieved.”
The Supreme Court, under the leadership of Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, has ordered protesting doctors to return to duty immediately, assuring that no punitive action will be taken against them if they comply.
The court emphasized that “any protest cannot be at the cost of duty,” urging the doctors to resume their medical responsibilities while ensuring their safety is protected.
During the proceedings, Chief Justice Chandrachud stated,
“The young doctors must now return and attend to the patients. We know what is happening on the ground. First, return to work. The district collectors and superintendents of police will ensure your safety.”
Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, representing the West Bengal government, highlighted the grave consequences of the strike, noting,
“The public is suffering, and healthcare has been in total disarray in the state due to the protests.”
Sibal informed the court that 23 individuals have died as a result of disruptions in healthcare services.
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