Punjab Medical Staff Halt OPD Services to Protest Colleague’s Tragic Demise

The Punjab Civil Medical Services Association suspended OPD services statewide, protesting the alleged rape and murder of a female doctor at Kolkata's R G Kar Medical College. They demand justice for the victim, a central protection act for healthcare professionals, and better security at public healthcare facilities. Emergency services remain operational.

The Punjab Civil Medical Services Association halted outpatient department (OPD) services at public health-care centers across the state on Friday. This move is a protest against the alleged rape and murder of a woman doctor at the state-run R G Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata.

Punjab Civil Medical Services Association (PCMSA) president, Dr. Akhil Sarin, stated, "We are demanding expeditious justice for the victim, central protection act for healthcare professionals, and adequate security arrangements at public healthcare facilities."

Despite the protest, emergency and medico-legal services remained functional. Sit-ins were also held by medical professionals at health centres to further their demand for justice.

(With inputs from agencies.)