“Supported From Day 1”: Abhishek Banerjee Wants Doctors To End Protest

Trinamool Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee has called on the junior doctors in Kolkata to end their ongoing strike and collaborate with the West Bengal government to enhance their safety and security measures. He emphasized his longstanding support for the doctors’ concerns, stating, “Since day one, I have supported the doctors in their concerns regarding safety and security”.

The junior doctors have been on strike since August 9, following the tragic rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. Despite a recent meeting with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee aimed at resolving the situation, the doctors have decided to continue their protest until their demands are met. These include the removal of the state’s Health Secretary and further negotiations with the government.

In a statement, Banerjee acknowledged that most of the doctors’ concerns are “valid, sensible, and justified,” urging them to consider resuming their duties as a gesture of goodwill. He highlighted that significant safety measures are underway, such as installing CCTV cameras in hospitals, which are expected to be completed within 14 days. Additionally, he noted that key personnel changes in the Health Department and Kolkata Police have been made in response to their demands.

The protesting doctors have also raised additional issues, including better accommodations, adequate toilet facilities, increased security, and the withdrawal of a directive preventing female doctors from working night shifts. They insist that their strike will persist until all these demands are addressed.