Kolkata doctor case | IMA Karnataka unit lays down 48-hour ultimatum demanding action, NIMHANS resident doctors begin indefinite protest

A file photo of doctors protesting against the increase in the number of assault againt the members of their fraternity, in Bengaluru on June 18, 2021.
| Photo Credit: MURALI KUMAR K

Strongly condemning the heinous rape and murder of a second-year postgraduate student at R.G. Kar Medical College in Kolkata, the Karnataka State Chapter of the Indian Medical Association (IMA) has demanded an impartial, thorough investigation of the case and punishment to the culprits.

“We demand that the authorities act with precision and in time of 48 hours, failing which IMA will be constrained to initiate nationwide action. A fair, transparent and time-sensitive criminal investigation is in order. An ultimatum of two days is given to arrest culprits, otherwise IMA will take [out] nationwide protests,” IMA state president Prof. Dr. S. Srinivas said in a statement on August 12, 2024.

The IMA has also organised a candle march protest and a press meet at 6.30 pm on Tuesday (August 13, 2024).

Also watch: Kolkata doctor rape and murder: Doctors across India continue strike

While the resident doctors at NIMHANS launched an indefinite protest against the incident on August 12 demanding justice, the Association of Physicians of India sent out posters asking all doctors to wear a black badge in solidarity with the victim, and also urged them to display the message in their clinics.

In a statement released on August 10, the Karnataka Association of Resident Doctors (KARD) called for the implementation of comprehensive safety reforms.

The KARD is an association of house surgeons, post-graduates, senior residents and super speciality residents of Government Medical and Dental Colleges in Karnataka.

Among the key demands laid down by KARD is a CBI investigation into the incident, and suspension of any personnel suspected of involvement or negligence until the investigation is complete. The resident doctors’ association is also advocating for strict enforcement of a zero-tolerance policy against violence in medical institutions along with comprehensive mental health services for those affected. It also calls for government oversight to ensure these demands are implemented with regular updates.

The body has also proposed regular, independent security audits to ensure safety, establishment of trained crisis response teams in all medical colleges and legal protection for medical professionals and fast-track violence cases.