In response to the brutal sexual assault and murder of a postgraduate trainee doctor in Kolkata, resident doctors of government hospitals in Mumbai have joined the protests by going on an indefinite strike. This strike has paralyzed services in OPDs and has impacted non-emergency surgeries. The Federation of Resident Doctors’ Association (FORDA) called for this strike, stating that it will not be lifted until justice is served and their demands are met.
The strike in Mumbai hospitals began on Tuesday, with doctors and medical students participating in protests at Nair Hospital. The Maharashtra State Association of Resident Doctors (MARD) announced an indefinite strike to show solidarity with their colleagues protesting across the nation against the Kolkata doctor rape-murder case. All elective services in hospitals across Maharashtra will be halted, while emergency services will continue as usual.
The Central MARD has issued a statement demanding an impartial and transparent investigation into the Kolkata incident. They are calling for the formation of an expert committee for the implementation of the Central Healthcare Protection Act, along with improved security measures such as fully functional CCTVs and well-equipped guards for the safety of healthcare workers. Additionally, they are advocating for quality hostels and proper on-call rooms for resident doctors.
The decision to halt work was not taken lightly, but it was deemed necessary to ensure that their demands are met. Resident doctors at Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) run hospitals like Cooper, KEM, Nair, and Sion have also joined the indefinite strike to show solidarity with FORDA. They strongly condemn the heinous act and are calling for swift identification and justice for the perpetrators.
The protests and strikes in Mumbai are part of a nationwide movement to seek justice for the Kolkata doctor and to ensure the safety and security of healthcare workers across the country. The residents doctors are determined to continue their strike until their demands are addressed and are urging all local Maharashtra State Association of Resident Doctors units to join the cause.
This show of solidarity and unity among healthcare workers highlights the importance of standing together in the face of injustice and violence. The protests serve as a reminder of the risks and challenges faced by those working in the medical profession and the need for stronger measures to protect their safety and well-being.