The tense standoff between junior doctors in West Bengal and the state government continues as the doctors persist with their indefinite hunger strike, which began in response to the brutal rape and murder of a colleague at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. A crucial meeting between the striking doctors and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is scheduled for Monday, October 21, at 5:00 PM at Nabanna, the state secretariat.
Scheduled Meeting: Junior doctors have agreed to meet CM Banerjee but remain adamant that their hunger strike will not end unless their demands are addressed. These demands include reforms in hospital administration and the removal of the state health secretary.
Past Attempts: CM Banerjee has previously tried to resolve the deadlock, including a publicized phone conversation offering to meet with the doctors directly. However, these attempts have failed to break the impasse as the doctors continue to press their demands.
Health Concerns: The situation has grown increasingly serious, with six doctors reportedly hospitalized due to the deteriorating health conditions brought on by the hunger strike.
Doctors’ Stance
The junior doctors have outlined ten specific demands aimed at improving the healthcare system in West Bengal. Among their chief grievances is the alleged corruption of the health secretary, whom they demand be removed from office. One protest leader stressed that the hunger strike cannot be called off as a precondition for dialogue, underscoring their determination.
Government Response
TMC spokesperson Kunal Ghosh has urged public support for government doctors while criticizing certain practices in the medical community. However, the protesting doctors remain skeptical, claiming their movement has garnered international attention and support.
Monday’s meeting could prove decisive in determining the future course of the protest. If their demands are not met, the junior doctors have signaled that further actions could be taken starting Tuesday.
