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Stand-Off Continues Between Mamata Banerjee and Junior Doctors Amid Ongoing Strike in Kolkata

  • 12 Sep 2024 10:04 AM
  • JuniorDoctorsProtest, MamataBanerjee, RGKarHospital, KolkataProtests

The ongoing standoff between West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and junior doctors protesting the rape and murder of their colleague at Kolkata's RG Kar Hospital shows no signs of resolution. As the strike enters its 34th day, a delegation of 32 junior doctors camped outside the state secretariat, refusing to meet with Ms. Banerjee unless their demands, including live-streaming the meeting, are met. Despite waiting for over two hours, the delegation has not entered the meeting, leading to further tensions between the protesting doctors and the state government.

The Chief Secretary, Manoj Pant, stated that the state has agreed to allow all 32 doctors to attend the meeting and has addressed other pre-conditions, but the demand for live-streaming remains a sticking point. Pant explained that while the meeting could be recorded, live-streaming is not permissible, a stance that the doctors have rejected. This deadlock underscores the deep frustration and ongoing concerns within the healthcare sector in West Bengal.

Junior doctors are demanding accountability for the rape and murder of their colleague, calling for strict action against those involved and improved security for healthcare workers. Their protest also targets senior officials, including the Kolkata Police chief and Health Secretary Narayan Swaroop. The Supreme Court's involvement in the issue has added pressure on the state government to resolve the situation, yet no significant action has been taken by the Chief Minister so far.

The crisis highlights a broader issue within West Bengal’s healthcare system, as the doctors' strike continues to affect the delivery of medical services. The deadlock between Mamata Banerjee and the junior doctors reflects a complex interplay of political, legal, and social factors, with both sides holding firm on their respective positions.