Protesting doctors write to President, PM amid deadlock with Mamata
What's the story
The junior doctors protesting in Kolkata have written to President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, seeking their intervention to end the impasse. This comes after talks between them and the West Bengal government failed for the third consecutive day. The doctors have been protesting since a trainee doctor was raped and murdered in Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital on August 9.
Letter details
Doctors' plea for intervention amid rising threats
In their letter, the doctors stated that they are facing an increase in "institutional threats, violence, and vandalism" since the protests began. They wrote, "Your intervention in these trying times will act as a beacon of light to us all, showing us the way ahead out of the darkness that surrounds us." The letter was also copied to Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar and Health Minister JP Nadda.
Protest update
Doctors' demands and ongoing protests
The doctors are demanding the removal of Kolkata Police Commissioner Vineet Goyal, state health secretary, director of health education, and director of health services. They are also seeking enhanced security measures for women health professionals and suspension of Sandip Ghosh, former principal of RG Kar Hospital. The protest has entered its 33rd day as they continue to demand justice for Abhaya, the postgraduate trainee whose body was discovered at RG Kar Hospital on August 9.
Protest demands
Doctors' call for transparency and security
The junior doctors have emphasized the need for transparency in the ongoing investigation into the case. They are also calling for better security measures in hospitals and government healthcare centers. Additionally, they have demanded a more democratic representation in official bodies to address threats and issues faced by healthcare professionals.