Breakthrough in RG Kar Impasse: West Bengal Government and Junior Doctors Begin Crucial Talks

The West Bengal government and agitating junior doctors have commenced talks to resolve the RG Kar Hospital impasse. After four failed attempts, the doctors agreed to a compromise on meeting conditions, enabling the discussions at Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's residence. The doctors continue their protests demanding justice and key officials' removal.

The first round of talks between the West Bengal government and the agitating junior doctors kicked off at Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's residence in Kalighat on Monday evening. The discussions aim to address the RG Kar Hospital impasse that has remained unresolved.

Following four unsuccessful attempts to initiate dialogue, a delegation of junior doctors arrived for this crucial meeting. Previous efforts stalled as the state government rejected the doctors' demand for live-streaming and video recording. Ultimately, the medics compromised by asking for the meeting minutes to be recorded and signed.

Chief Secretary Manoj Pant confirmed that the state government accepted this condition, stating that both parties would sign the minutes and share copies for transparency.

Meanwhile, the doctors continued their sit-in outside Swasthya Bhawan, the Health department headquarters, marking the eighth day of protest and 36 days of 'cease work' to seek justice for the doctor who was raped and murdered at RG Kar Hospital. They also demand the removal of the Kolkata Police Commissioner and senior health officials.

On Saturday, Banerjee visited the protest site, assuring the doctors that their demands would be addressed. However, the scheduled meeting fell through when protestors claimed they were asked to leave after a three-hour wait at the gates of the Chief Minister's residence.

(With inputs from agencies.)