GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 22nd August. Resident doctors at Delhi’s AIIMS have ended their 11-day strike and protests over the rape and murder of a colleague at Kolkata’s RG Kar Hospital. The decision follows an appeal from the Supreme Court, which urged medical professionals across the country to return to work and trust in the judicial process. The Supreme Court’s intervention came after huge public and political pressure over the tragic incident and broader concerns about the safety of healthcare workers.
In a statement released Thursday afternoon, the Resident Doctors’ Association (RDA) at AIIMS announced their decision to call off the 11-day strike. They cited the Supreme Court’s appeal and assurance as key factors in their choice. “In the interest of the nation and in the spirit of public service, the RDA (AIIMS) has decided to call off the strike. We extend our sincere appreciation to the Supreme Court for addressing the RG Kar Medical College incident and the broader issue of safety for healthcare workers,” the statement read.
The RDA also emphasized that no punitive actions would be taken against the protesting doctors and pledged to continue advocating for healthcare workers’ rights and safety through engagement with authorities and ministries.
The Supreme Court had previously urged doctors to return to work, stressing that ongoing abstention could negatively impact patients in need of medical care. Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, leading a bench on the matter, appealed directly to healthcare professionals, assuring them that the court was actively addressing their concerns. “We are here to ensure their safety and protection. Please trust us, that is why we have not left the matter to the (Calcutta) High Court,” the Chief Justice stated.
The court has taken suo moto cognisance of the case involving the rape and murder of the junior doctor, whose body was discovered with severe injuries on August 9. The incident has sparked widespread public outrage and highlighted issues of violence against women and the safety of medical professionals.
The Supreme Court has ordered the formation of a 10-member task force to recommend measures for preventing violence against medical professionals and ensuring safe working conditions. The CBI, which is investigating the case, and the Bengal government have been directed to file status reports on the investigation and recent vandalism at RG Kar Hospital, respectively.
The incident has also intensified political tensions, with Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee facing criticism and calls for resignation. The Calcutta High Court has questioned the state’s response, including the delay in filing a police case and the rapid reappointment of hospital chief Dr. Sandip Ghosh.
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