Nationwide Strike by Resident Doctors Shakes Medical Services

Resident doctors in Maharashtra have joined national protests against the rape and murder of a trainee doctor in Kolkata, initiating an indefinite strike affecting elective medical services. Leaders demand better security, a transparent investigation, and improvements in hospital conditions. Emergency services continue to operate.

Resident doctors in Maharashtra began an indefinite strike Tuesday morning, aligning with nationwide protests triggered by the rape and murder of a post-graduate trainee at a Kolkata medical college.

All elective services in hospitals state-wide have been halted, though emergency services remain operational, according to Maharashtra State Association of Resident Doctors (Central-MARD) president Dr. Pratik Debaje. 'From 9 am, we have stopped work at all OPDs and elective services. Only emergency services are running,' Dr. Debaje said.

The postgraduate trainee's body was discovered Friday at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. A civic volunteer has been arrested on suspicion of involvement.

Mounting protests reflect the deep safety concerns among junior doctors and healthcare workers. Central MARD calls for a transparent investigation, swift action on the Central Healthcare Protection Act, enhanced security measures, upgraded hostels, and proper on-call rooms. 'The decision to halt work was difficult but necessary,' the association stated, urging local MARD units to participate.

Resident doctors across the country commenced an indefinite strike Monday, severely disrupting OPD and non-emergency services, adhering to a Federation of Resident Doctors' Association (FORDA) directive. FORDA announced the strike's continuation following unresolved talks with Union health ministry officials.

(With inputs from agencies.)