IMA Announces Nationwide Strike After Tragic Incident in Kolkata

Desk Report, August 16, 2024: The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has announced a nationwide strike on August 17, following the rape and murder of a female doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The strike will last from 6 am on Saturday until 6 am on Sunday, during which essential services will remain operational. However, outpatient departments (OPDs) and elective surgeries will be suspended.

The incident, which occurred in the early hours of August 9, 2024, has sent shockwaves across the nation. A postgraduate trainee in chest medicine was reportedly raped and murdered while on duty at the hospital. This has led to widespread protests by resident doctors and the IMA, with candlelight vigils held nationwide. The IMA has criticized the handling of the case by both the college authorities and the police, accusing them of stalling the investigation after the initial stages.

In response to the crime and the subsequent violence against protesting students on Independence Day eve, the IMA has called for the strike. While essential services will continue, routine medical operations will be halted. The IMA has urged the public to support the doctors’ cause, emphasizing the need for justice.

This announcement comes a day after unidentified individuals vandalized parts of RG Kar Medical College. The vandalism occurred during midnight protests against the heinous crime. The victim, a 32-year-old doctor, was found semi-naked in the seminar hall of the hospital on August 9. A civic volunteer has been arrested in connection with the case. The Calcutta High Court has since transferred the investigation from Kolkata Police to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

Also read: Assam Police Discover Suspicious Items During Independence Day Eve Search Operations