Junior doctors, who have been protesting since the brutal incident involving the rape and murder of a female doctor at R.G. Kar Medical College, have announced a mass rally on Mahalaya, October 2. Prior to the rally, a march and a general convention were organized on Friday by the West Bengal Junior Doctors’ Front at the SSKM Hospital auditorium, where representatives from all sections of society were invited.
Key Points of the News:
- General Convention for Justice:
Junior doctors organized a general convention, inviting representatives from across society, including rickshaw drivers, senior doctors, actors, directors, and sports fans. Discussions were held on their ongoing movement and the way forward, with a call for broader social participation. - Demand for Justice:
The doctors emphasized their five-point demand, calling for strict action against those responsible for tampering with evidence in the R.G. Kar case. They also raised concerns over the culture of intimidation within hospitals and promised to continue their struggle until their demands are met. - Criticism of Smear Campaigns:
The junior doctors refuted claims of making new demands, insisting that their focus remains on the same five issues. They also addressed misinformation being spread about their movement, reaffirming their commitment to justice. - Speakers Express Solidarity:
Speakers, including SSKM director Monimoy Bandyopadhyay, filmmakers, and social workers, expressed their solidarity with the junior doctors and condemned the lack of action by authorities. They called for punishment for those responsible for the incident and urged the community to remain patient and vigilant. - Planned Mass Rally on Mahalaya:
The junior doctors announced two upcoming events: a public gathering on September 29 and a major rally on Mahalaya, October 2, at Dharmatala. They stated that while they cannot stop people from celebrating festivals, they are not mentally prepared for festivities given the lack of justice in the case. - Symbolic Protest:
The doctors plan to install a symbolic statue representing the suffering of the victim on October 2, as a reminder of their ongoing struggle for justice. - Public Outcry Against Delayed Justice:
Various speakers at the convention, including activists and celebrities, condemned the delay in justice, calling on the Supreme Court and other authorities to expedite the investigation and ensure justice for the victim. - Call to Action:
The movement was framed as not just a doctors’ protest but a people’s movement for justice and accountability. The junior doctors reiterated that they would continue fighting until they secure justice for the victim and ensure that such incidents do not happen again.
The rally on Mahalaya is expected to draw significant participation as junior doctors and their supporters march for justice.