New Delhi/Shimla: The murder of Dr. Moumita Debnath, a young second-year postgraduate resident doctor at RG Kar Medical College in Kolkata, has sent shockwaves through the nation, sparking widespread anger and protest in Medical institutions.
The horrific incident, which occurred within the supposed safety of an educational institution, has led the United Doctors Front Association (UDFA) to take to the streets, demanding justice and immediate action from the government.
For four days, the authorities have remained silent despite UDFA’s 48-hour ultimatum issued on August 10, 2024, stated the UDFA.
The demands were clear: a fair and impartial CBI investigation into Dr. Debnath's murder, and the swift implementation of the Central Protection Act to safeguard healthcare professionals.
But the government's inaction has only fueled the fire among the doctors.
“We cannot stand by while one of our own is brutally taken from us, and the authorities do nothing,” said Dr. Lakshmi Mittal, President of UDFA.
“This isn’t just about Moumita. This is about the safety of every medical professional in this country. We won’t stop until our demands are met.”
The protest has seen doctors, medical students rallying together under the banner of UDFA.
Hospitals across the country have suspended elective services in a show of solidarity.
“We know this will cause inconvenience, but what choice do we have? The safety of those who dedicate their lives to saving others is non-negotiable,” said Dr. Arun Kumar, National General Secretary of UDFA.
UDFA demands include:
1. CBI Investigation: An immediate and thorough investigation into Dr. Debnath’s murder to ensure that justice is served.
2. Central Law for Healthcare Protection: The swift introduction and implementation of a law to protect healthcare workers from violence, with clear security measures in all medical institutions.
3. Safe Zones for Hospitals: Declaring hospitals and healthcare establishments as safe zones, with mandatory police presence in major hospitals and private institutions.
4. CCTV Installation: Comprehensive CCTV coverage at all vulnerable points within healthcare facilities to deter potential violence.
The medical community has been loud and clear: their lives matter, and they won’t rest until they are heard.
The All India Medical Students Association has also thrown its weight behind the protest, mobilizing students across the country to join the movement.
“This isn’t just about us, it’s about the future of healthcare in India. How can we expect to care for others when we’re not safe ourselves?” questioned Dr. Mittal.
The UDFA is also calling for the formation of an expert committee to fast-track the ratification of the Central Healthcare Protection Act.
“We need this done yesterday. The government needs to act now, or they’ll have an entire nation of doctors on their hands, and we won’t back down,” Dr. Kumar warned.
As the protest gains momentum, the UDFA has made it clear that if their demands are not met, the agitation will escalate.
“We’re ready for a long fight. Our lives and the lives of our patients depend on it,” Dr. Mittal declared.
The ball is now in the government’s court.
Will Centre act and Seek WB CM Mamata Banerjee take on the matter.
Will they act before it’s too late?
