Assam Doctors Demand Justice and Safety in Nationwide Protest

Doctors across Assam protested against the alleged rape and murder of a medic in Kolkata, demanding justice and better safety measures. The demonstration led by the Indian Medical Association included halts in outpatient services and public awareness efforts. They called for swift punishment and improved security for medical professionals.

Doctors across Assam took part in a nationwide protest on Saturday, demanding justice for a medic allegedly raped and murdered in a Kolkata hospital. Wearing black badges and displaying placards, they called for swift and exemplary punishment for the culprits, improved safety infrastructure at medical institutions, and a central law to protect healthcare professionals.

Outpatient departments and non-essential services were significantly disrupted as medical professionals assembled at hospitals to voice their concerns. Senior doctors ensured essential services ran to minimize patient inconvenience. The Indian Medical Association had announced a 24-hour withdrawal of non-emergency medical services from 6 am on August 17 to press for their demands.

The protest also aimed to raise awareness about the insecurity faced by doctors in the workplace. Placards with slogans like 'No safety, no duty' and 'Stop shielding rapists' were held aloft. Protests extended to private hospitals and nursing institutes, where staged street plays highlighted the need for better security measures.