Resident Doctors Halt Services After Tragic Death of Colleague
The brutal rape and murder of a second-year resident doctor at RG Kar Medical College in Kolkata has sparked outrage and action across the medical community. In response to this horrific incident, the Federation of Resident Doctors' Association (FORDA) has announced a nationwide halt of elective services in hospitals, starting August 12, 2024.
The post-graduate trainee doctor was found raped and murdered on the college premises on August 9, leading to widespread protests and condemnation. In a letter addressed to Union Health Minister JP Nadda, FORDA expressed its deep anguish and described the incident as "the greatest travesty to have occurred in the history of the resident doctor community."
FORDA emphasizes that this tragedy is not just an attack on their profession but on the very essence of humanity. The association has outlined several demands in the wake of this event, including the immediate resignation of responsible authorities such as the Principal, MSVP, Dean, and Head of the Department of Pulmonary Medicine. They have also demanded action against the Assistant Commissioner of Police of the RG Kar MC&H police outpost for failing to protect the doctor.
Furthermore, FORDA insists on an assurance that protesting doctors will not face police brutality or manhandling and that their right to peaceful protest will be respected. The association also demands justice for the deceased doctor and appropriate compensation for her family.
FORDA stands ready to contribute and provide any assistance necessary to achieve these goals. They hope that the government will take immediate action to address their demands and ensure the safety and security of all healthcare professionals.