Hyderabad, Aug 17: The medical community in India has escalated its protest following the shocking rape and murder of a young female doctor in Kolkata. The Indian Medical Association (IMA), the country’s largest organization of medical professionals, has initiated a nationwide strike starting today, reported The Times of India.
This strike, which is being regarded as one of the largest in the past decade, has led to the suspension of numerous medical services across the country. The incident that sparked this massive outcry occurred at Kolkata’s R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital, where a 31-year-old postgraduate trainee doctor was brutally raped and murdered while on duty, sending shockwaves throughout the nation.
The horrific event took place on August 9, prompting widespread protests in Kolkata, which soon spread to other parts of the country. In response, medical professionals across India have joined in solidarity, organizing protests and strikes.
On Friday, the IMA announced its decision to commence a 24-hour strike from 6 AM on Saturday, August 17, to 6 AM on Sunday, August 18. Medical associations nationwide have expressed their support for the strike.
As a result, many hospital departments across the country will remain closed this weekend. Outpatient departments (OPDs) and elective surgeries are expected to be shut down, although emergency services will continue to operate as usual.
Casualty services will be available to handle any urgent medical needs that may arise during the strike. The strike is anticipated to affect all sectors where modern medicine doctors are employed, including both government and private hospitals.
The medical community is calling for swift justice and stronger protective measures for healthcare professionals in the wake of this tragedy.
