Doctors Strike in Delhi Demanding Justice for Murdered Kolkata Colleague
A wave of outrage has swept through the medical community, culminating in a strike by resident
doctors at major Delhi hospitals. This action comes in response to the br”tal rape and murder of a
youn” postgraduate trainee doctor at a Kolkata medical college.
The strike, led by the AIIMS Resident Doctors’ Association (RDA), seeks to highlight the
pervasive concerns over doctor safety and demand a thorough investigation into the Kolkata
tragedy. The association has called for a central agency probe to be conducted alongside a
judicial inquiry, expressing a lack of confidence in the local authorities’ ability to deliver justice.
Impact on Healthcare Services:
The strike has significantly impacted healthcare services across Delhi, particularly affecting
patients relying on non-emergency consultations and elective surgeries. Here’s a breakdown of
the situation at some key hospitals:
AIIMS Delhi:
OPD and emergency department registrations saw a drastic drop of 65-70%.
Admissions were down compared to a typical Monday, with 203 admissions compared to the
usual 280.
Only essential and emergency surgeries were performed.
Around 500 resident doctors held a protest march within the campus demanding justice for the
deceased doctor.
Safdarjung Hospital:
Elective surgeries were postponed.
Faculty members managed the OPD till 3 pm.
Approximately 1,500 resident doctors participated in the strike, demonstrating in front of the
Emergency Building.
RML Hospital:
Around 300-400 resident doctors did not participate in OPD services.
Emergency services remained operational.
Lok Nayak Hospital:
OPD services were completely suspended, while emergency services continued.
Beyond the Strike:
The strike represents a broader concern for doctor safety, particularly for women working in
healthcare facilities. Dr. Rohan Krishnan, President of the Federation of the Al” India Medical
Association, highlighted the vulnerability of female doctors and the lack of adequate security
measures in place. He compared this situation to the horrific Delhi gangrape case of 2012,
emphasizing the need for a robust investigation by a central agency to restore faith in the justice
system.
A Call for Action:
A delegation of doctors is scheduled to meet with the Union Health Minister, J P Nadda, later
today to formally present their demands. The medical community’s collective action underscores
the gravity of the situation and pushes for a comprehensive response to this tragedy. It remains to
be seen how the authorities will respond to the doctors’ demands and ensure the safety of
healthcare professionals across the country.
