Thousands of doctors in India have initiated a strike to advocate for improved protection for health workers following the tragic rape and murder of a trainee medic in West Bengal state. The incident occurred at the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata, where the victim's body was discovered with multiple injuries and signs of sexual assault. A suspect has been apprehended in connection with the crime.
Medical federations in various states have called for a halt to all elective services at government hospitals indefinitely. They are urging for the swift handling of the case in court and the establishment of a protective committee for health workers. Dr. Sarvesh Pandey, the general secretary of the Federation of Resident Doctors Association (FORDA), reported that around 300,000 doctors have joined the protest, with more expected to participate.
Protest images from Kolkata, Delhi, and Hyderabad depict doctors holding signs and organizing candlelight vigils to raise awareness about the issue. Many doctors have shared their experiences of violence and threats from patients or their families, emphasizing the urgent need for improved safety measures.
A survey conducted by the Indian Medical Association in 2015 revealed that 75% of doctors in India have encountered some form of violence during their careers. The association has called for an investigation into working conditions and a thorough inquiry into the recent murder case.
India has long grappled with high rates of violence against women, with numerous rape cases garnering global attention. In 2022, the National Crime Records Bureau recorded 31,516 rape cases, highlighting the pervasive nature of the issue. Experts caution that these figures likely represent only a fraction of the actual incidents due to societal taboos and stigma surrounding rape victims.
Despite legal reforms enacted after the infamous 2012 gang-rape case in New Delhi, rape incidents persist in India. Victims and advocates argue that the government must do more to safeguard women and ensure perpetrators face stringent consequences.
