By Tejas

Pune , August 13: In response to the recent brutal rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor at R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital in West Bengal, widespread outrage has erupted across the country, sparking protests from multiple hospital associations. The ripple effects of this incident have also reached Maharashtra, where doctors from various hospitals have initiated strikes to demand a thorough investigation and better protection for medical professionals.

The Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors (MARD) at B.J. Medical College in Pune has joined the protest, launching an indefinite strike today. Around 450 resident doctors from B.J. Medical College and Sassoon General Hospital, along with their counterparts across Maharashtra, are participating in the strike. Their demands include a comprehensive investigation into the Kolkata crime by a central security agency, the implementation of stricter security measures in hospitals, and improvements in their working conditions.

During the strike, MARD has ensured that emergency services will remain unaffected. Additionally, selective surgeries, ward duties, lab services, and academic responsibilities will continue as usual.

Dr. Eknath Pawar, Dean of Sassoon Hospital, said, "Resident doctors at Sassoon Hospital have been on strike since this morning. MARD doctors gave a letter yesterday in this regard. The incident in Kolkata is deeply concerning. We have made alternative arrangements to ensure patient care is not disrupted. Approximately 600 to 650 doctors are on strike, and only essential services will continue."

The doctors' demands include:

1. A fair and transparent investigation into the Kolkata crime by the Central Investigation Agency.
2. The establishment of an expert committee to expedite the implementation of the Central Health Care Protection Act.
3. Fully functional CCTV systems and a well-equipped security framework to ensure the safety of healthcare workers.
4. Quality hostels and call rooms for resident doctors to improve their living and working conditions.