AIIMS and Safdarjung Doctors Persist in Strike, Call for Action on Kolkata Medic’s Murder

New Delhi: The strike by doctors at several prominent city hospitals, including AIIMS and Safdarjung, persists in response to the tragic rape and murder of a trainee doctor in Kolkata. The Resident Doctors’ Associations (RDAs) of AIIMS, VMMC, Safdarjung Hospital, Ram Manohar Lohia, and Indira Gandhi Hospital are observing their third consecutive day of protest, resulting in the suspension of outpatient services, surgical operations, and ward activities.

The Federation of All India Medical Associations (FAIMA) has voiced strong support for the ongoing strike, emphasizing the need for justice for the victim. FAIMA, representing a coalition of RDAs from various states and Institutes of National Importance, has condemned the heinous crime and vowed to continue the strike until adequate measures are taken.

Conversely, the Federation of Resident Doctors’ Association (FORDA) has called off its strike after a meeting with Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda. The decision to return to normal operations was driven by concerns for patient care. During the discussion, the health minister committed to forming a committee with FORDA’s involvement to advance the Central Protection Act, with work expected to commence within the next 15 days.

Doctors at Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital and Maulana Azad Medical College have also resumed their duties. The strike was triggered by the horrific incident on August 8, where a 32-year-old postgraduate trainee doctor was found raped and murdered at RG Kar Medical College in Kolkata. The case has sparked widespread outrage and calls for enhanced safety protocols for medical professionals across the country.