Despite the Supreme Court's call for doctors to return to work, the country's protesting medical professionals remain resolute. The court, which began hearings today on the widespread unrest, attempted to strike a balance between ensuring the security of doctors and maintaining patient care. It also advocated for a national protocol to enhance safety in workplaces. However, the doctors made it clear that they are unwilling to back down.
The All-India Residents and Junior Doctors' Joint Action Forum, one of the key organizations representing the medical professionals, did not hesitate to voice its dissatisfaction. In a strongly worded communique, the Forum stated, "The Supreme Court's directive for increased security at hospitals, while well-intentioned, does not address the core problems plaguing our healthcare system."
Root of the issue lies in the long-standing neglect: Forum
The Forum emphasized that the root of the issue lies in the long-standing neglect, underfunding, and understaffing of the public healthcare system. While the Chief Justice of India's call for enhanced security is a response to the immediate crisis, the Forum argued that this cannot be a sustainable, long-term solution.
Instead, the Forum called for a "comprehensive overhaul of the system" and vowed to continue their movement until their demands are met. "We will not rest until the real culprits are brought to justice, and the systemic issues that plague our healthcare system are addressed," the Forum declared.
At Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College, the resident doctors affirmed their determination to continue their protest. "Our cease work will continue resolutely until the Supreme Court delivers its verdict on Thursday. This is not just a protest; it is a stand for the safety, dignity, and rights of every medical professional in our country," the college's residents said in a statement to the media.
FORDA holds meeting with representatives from 35 Resident Doctors' Associations
The Federation of Resident Doctors Association (FORDA) also weighed in, revealing that it has already convened a meeting with representatives from 35 Resident Doctors' Associations. "The representatives will now consult with Resident Doctors for their feedback before a follow-up meeting," FORDA announced, underscoring that the movement will continue to be guided by the "collective voices" of resident doctors.
In addressing the broader issue, the Supreme Court, which took up the case on its own initiative, explained its decision to intervene. Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, leading the three-judge bench, stated, "We decided to take suo motu action, though the High Court was hearing it, because this is not just a case of a horrific murder in the Kolkata hospital, but it is about the systemic issue of the safety of doctors across India."
Doctors' concerns are being addressed by the Supreme Court: Bench
The judges further appealed to the doctors to resume their duties as soon as possible, stressing that the absence of medical professionals disproportionately affects those in need of care. "Doctors and medical professionals can be assured that their concerns are being addressed by the Supreme Court," the bench assured.
Regarding the tragic rape and murder of the 31-year-old doctor at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College, the court did not spare any of the authorities involved—the hospital, the police, or the state government. It has requested a status report from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) by Thursday and underscored the need for a "national protocol for safe working conditions." The court said that such a protocol must be implemented nationwide.
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