Nationwide Medical Strike Highlights Need for Healthcare Worker Protection

Resident doctors across India went on strike to protest the alleged rape and murder of a postgraduate trainee in Kolkata. The protests have disrupted healthcare services, primarily affecting outpatient departments. The strike will continue until a central law for medical personnel protection is implemented. The CBI has taken over the investigation.

Healthcare services in multiple states faced significant disruption on Tuesday as resident doctors went on strike following the alleged rape and murder of a postgraduate trainee in Kolkata. Despite the intervention of Union Health Minister J P Nadda, the majority of protesting medics remain firm in their demand for a central law to protect medical workers.

A delegation from the Federation of Resident Doctors' Association (FORDA) met with Nadda, who agreed to various demands, including forming a committee to draft a Central Protection Act. However, the AIIMS and several other medical associations have vowed to continue their protest until the law is enacted.

The strike, which has severely impacted outpatient and elective services in government hospitals, has garnered attention nationwide. Additionally, the Calcutta High Court has transferred the investigation of the incident to the CBI, acting on a petition from the victim's parents. The case has underscored the urgent need for improved safety measures for healthcare workers across the country.

(With inputs from agencies.)