Nationwide Strike in India: Doctors Protest Kolkata Medic’s Rape and Murder

Widespread Outrage Leads to Nationwide Strike

Hundreds of thousands of health workers across India initiated a nationwide strike to protest the brutal rape and murder of a trainee doctor in Kolkata. The incident, which occurred at a government hospital, has sparked widespread outrage, with healthcare professionals demanding better protection and justice.

Massive Protests Led by Healthcare Workers

On Saturday, doctors and healthcare workers led protests in cities across the country, joined by tens of thousands of supporters. The protests called for action against the rising violence faced by medical professionals. Hospitals and clinics across India shut down, with only emergency services remaining operational during the 24-hour strike that began at 6 am (00:30 GMT).

Tragic Discovery Sparks Nationwide Anger

The body of the 31-year-old doctor was discovered on August 9 at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata. She was working a grueling 36-hour shift when she was assaulted and killed in the hospital’s seminar hall. An autopsy confirmed the brutal sexual assault, fueling public outrage and protests across multiple cities.

Indian Medical Association Condemns the Attack

The Indian Medical Association (IMA), which represents over 400,000 doctors, condemned the attack as a “barbaric crime” and criticized the lack of safe spaces for women in the country. The IMA emphasized that the medical community, as well as the nation, are victims of such violence.

Protests Spread Across Major Indian Cities

The protests and strikes extended to cities like Lucknow, Ahmedabad, Guwahati, Chennai, and New Delhi. In the capital, doctors expressed concerns over the dire working conditions, including the “abysmal” doctor-to-patient ratio and the absence of proper rest facilities for those working long hours.

Demands for Legal Protection and Justice

Doctors are demanding the implementation of the Central Protection Act, which would offer legal safeguards to healthcare workers against violence. They are also advocating for stricter laws, including making attacks on medics non-bailable offenses.

Federal Investigation Underway

A suspect has been detained in connection with the crime, and the investigation has been handed over to federal authorities following accusations of mishandling by state officials. The case has highlighted the broader issue of violence against women in India, where many crimes go unreported due to societal stigma and a lack of trust in law enforcement.

Collective Call for Change

The protests reflect a broader demand for systemic changes to protect healthcare workers and women across the country. At a rally in New Delhi, a poster encapsulated the sentiment of many: “Enough is enough.”