West Bengal Medical Council Rallies for Justice in RG Kar Hospital Case

Doctors in Kolkata took to the streets demanding justice for the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital rape-murder case. They rallied against a closed-door meeting proposed by CM Mamata Banerjee and outlined their demands, emphasizing transparency and the presence of the Chief Minister in discussions.

In Kolkata, the West Bengal Medical Council organized a rally on Wednesday, calling for justice in the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital rape-murder case. Doctors brandished banners demanding 'punishment for all rapist-murderers and their accomplices in the Abhaya rape and murder case'.

Protesting doctors marched through the streets, raising slogans and holding placards to voice their demands for justice in the heinous crime that occurred on August 9. Meanwhile, doctors from RK Kar Hospital rejected West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's invitation for a closed-door discussion at the state secretariat regarding their refusal to resume work.

Explaining their decision, Dr. Aqeeb told ANI, 'The email we received from the principal secretary mentioned a meeting with senior officials, but it was specified to be a closed-door meeting. Hence, we declined the invitation as we oppose such conditions.' WB Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya mentioned that the Chief Minister had been waiting for the doctors, a detail the mail allegedly lacked. As a result, the doctors sent a response reiterating their five demands.

These demands included the resignation of those obstructing justice, conducting elections, recognizing the college council, and incorporating elected, not selected, representatives. Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya reiterated the Chief Minister's openness to dialogue with a small delegation of up to 10 doctors.

Dr. Debasish Halder, a protest leader, criticized the email's tone, terming it disrespectful and insensitive. The junior doctors' front reiterated their conditions in a response sent to the Chief Secretary, emphasizing the need for the Chief Minister's presence and a live telecast of the meeting.

Despite their willingness to engage in discussions, the doctors vowed to persist with their agitation until their demands were met. Invitations were extended to principals, directors, medical superintendents, and vice-principals from all state medical colleges and hospitals to join the meeting.

(With inputs from agencies.)