Kolkata Doctor Murder: The FORDA announced that on August 12, elective services would be suspended in hospitals all across the country in support of the RG Kar Medical College residents. This drastic measure follows the death of a postgraduate trainee doctor at the college.
Preliminary Reports Reveal Strangulation and Sexual Assault in Trainee Doctor’s Death
On August 9, the body of a second-year trainee in respiratory medicine was found in RG Kar Medical College and Hospital’s seminar hall. Preliminary reports suggest that the young doctor had serious injuries, including strangulation and sexual assault. The doctor’s body was found semi-naked, with bloodstains visible and a fractured collarbone, shocking the medical fraternity and causing widespread outrage.
FORDA shot off a letter to Union Health Minister JP Nadda following up on this horrific incident, and declared the suspension of elective procedures all over the country. The letter conveys deep concern over the safety and security of the medical staff and students. This move by FORDA reflects the urgency and gravity of the situation, making it pretty clear that urgent action is expected.
Potential Shutdown of Health Services if Safety Concerns Aren’t Addressed
It has warned the Federation that if their demands on justice and improvement of safety in their workplace are not addressed within 24 hours, they will consider another course of action, one which might include a total shutdown of health services in hospitals.
It shook not only the medical fraternity but has also pointed out long-standing concerns about the safety and protection of medical professionals under training. FORDA thus made a bold stand for a surging demand for accountability and far-reaching changes toward ensuring the security and well-being of doctors and medical staff across the country.