IMA Goes On 24-Hour Nationwide Strike, Puts 5 Key Demands
Kolkata Doctor Rape Murder Case: The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has called for a nationwide 24-hour halt of non-emergency medical services starting at 6 a.m. on Saturday, August 17, in response to the horrific rape and murder of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata.
The IMA outlined five key demands:
1. Better Working Conditions: They want major improvements in the working and living conditions for resident doctors, addressing issues like the 36-hour shifts that the victim was working and the lack of safe resting areas.
2. Stronger Protection Laws: The IMA is calling for a new central law to better protect healthcare workers from violence, similar to changes made to the Epidemic Diseases Act of 1897. They suggest incorporating these changes into the Hospital Protection Bill of 2019 or issuing an ordinance like the one used during the COVID-19 pandemic.
3. Proper Investigation: They demand a thorough and professional investigation into the crime and swift justice for those responsible, including those who vandalized the hospital on the night of August 14.
4. Enhanced Security: The IMA wants hospital security measures to be as strict as those in airports, including CCTV cameras and security personnel, to ensure hospitals are safe environments.
5. Fair Compensation: They are calling for appropriate and respectful compensation for the victim’s family in light of the severe cruelty inflicted.
Essential medical services and emergency care will continue as usual, according to the IMA’s statement.
Nationwide Doctor strike: OPDs closed
The IMA has declared a 24-hour suspension of services by all doctors practicing modern medicine nationwide, affecting all sectors and workplaces. During this period, outpatient departments (OPDs) and elective surgeries will be halted, but emergency services and casualty care will remain operational.
On Friday, thousands of doctors rallied in cities across the country to protest the rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor, calling for justice and improved security measures at medical facilities and hospitals.
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