FAIMA's Nationwide OPD Shutdown Continues Over Assault and Murder of PG Doctor

FAIMA has decided to continue its nationwide shutdown of OPD services following discussions with the Resident Doctors' Association. This protest is in response to the sexual assault and murder of a woman PG trainee doctor in Kolkata. The strike demands Central protection for healthcare workers.

The Federation of All India Medical Association (FAIMA) has resolved to persist with its nationwide closure of Out-Patient Department (OPD) services. This decision follows consultations with the Resident Doctors' Association (RDA) to show solidarity over the sexual assault and murder of a female post-graduate trainee doctor at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital on August 9.

Announcing the decision on X, FAIMA declared, "We had a meeting with all the associated RDAs Pan India. The matter is not solved yet. @AmitShahOffice ji @JPNadda ji our demand is Central protection for HCW. Strike to be continued tomorrow. We are standing with you all, our dear Residents."

In support of the call, resident doctors at the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and the Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors (MARD) declared their intention to continue the strike until all their demands are met in writing. BMC MARD stated, "We have decided that the ongoing strike will continue until all the demands put forth by the association are fully met and provided in writing."

The brutal incident has ignited widespread outrage and led to demonstrations within and outside the medical community. At Anugrah Narayan Magadh Medical College Hospital (ANMMC), the largest government hospital in South Bihar, doctors held a protest holding placards, seeking justice. Resident doctors from Agartala Government Medical College (AGMC) also staged a protest, closing all OPDs but keeping emergency services open. Dr. Himanshu of the psychiatric department highlighted their three demands: swift punishment for the culprit and a central act to protect resident doctors within hospital premises.

(With inputs from agencies.)