Thousands of doctors took to the streets in protest after a horrific incident at a government-run hospital in West Bengal, demanding justice for the victim and better security measures. The nationwide protest spread to Maharashtra and New Delhi, with government doctors halting work to demand investigation and safer working conditions.
Patient services were affected in cities like Lucknow and Goa, as doctors cited unsafe working environments and inhuman workloads. The Indian Medical Association urged Health Minister J P Nadda to address these issues.
Despite the arrest of a suspect in the doctor’s murder and the resignation of the medical college’s principal, doctors continue to feel unsafe. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has set a deadline for the police investigation, threatening to involve federal agencies if necessary.
Emergency services remained suspended in government hospitals in Kolkata, as doctors face violence and low pay in overcrowded facilities. The ongoing protest highlights the urgent need for improvements in India’s healthcare system.