Doctors' strike continues as meeting with health ministry inconclusive

Further, the Union government is directed to implement and enforce comprehensive safety measures for healthcare workers in all hospitals, he said | File Photo: Shutterstock

2 min read Last updated: August 13, 2024 | 06:44 IST

The Federation of Resident Doctors’ Associations on Monday announced extension of its indefinite strike to protest the rape and murder of a trainee doctor in Kolkata after their meeting with Union Health Ministry officials failed to find a solution.

Resident doctors of government hospitals across the country went on an indefinite strike on Monday to protest the horrific incident at RG Kar Medical College, which paralysed elective services including outpatient consultations and non-urgent surgeries.

The unrest was sparked by an appeal from the Federation of Resident Doctors’ Associations (FORDA).

“Despite extensive discussions with the Union Health Minister’s team, no concrete resolution was reached, leading to the continuation of the strike,” said a statement issued by FORDA on Monday evening.

FORDA President Dr Aviral Mathur said the strike would continue on Tuesday.

“I met the Union Health Minister’s team on Monday along with the association members and doctors. As no solution has been found regarding their demands, the strike will continue for another day,” Mathur said.

He also clarified that even if the resident doctors remain on strike, emergency services will continue to operate as previously indicated.

The association’s demands include immediate acceptance of the concerns of the residents of RG Kar Medical College, a guarantee against police brutality and respectful treatment of the protesting doctors, as well as speedy justice and compensation for the family of a deceased person involved in the conflict.

Further, the Union government is requested to implement and enforce comprehensive safety measures for healthcare workers in all hospitals, he said.

An expert committee should also be set up to expedite the ratification of the central healthcare protection law, with a clear timeline for its completion, the statement said.

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First published: August 13, 2024 | 06:44 IST