Hours after announcing that the strike initiated following the rape and murder of a trainee doctor in Kolkata would persist, the Federation of Resident Doctors' Association (FORDA) declared on Tuesday night that the agitation would be called off.
The decision came after a meeting with Union Health Minister JP Nadda, who assured that FORDA’s demands, including the passage of the Central Healthcare Protection Act to safeguard medical personnel, would be addressed. FORDA stated that the strike would be suspended on Wednesday morning in the interest of patient welfare. They also agreed to participate in a committee dedicated to the Act, which is expected to commence within 15 days.
All issues will be tackled: Health Ministry
Following FORDA’s announcement, the health ministry expressed support. On X (formerly Twitter), it was noted that Nadda welcomed the decision and promised that the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare would address all concerns related to the safety of healthcare workers. The ministry's post emphasized that all issues would be tackled to ensure a safer work environment for medical professionals.
Ongoing Strike by Other Groups
Despite FORDA's decision to end the strike, other medical associations have decided to continue their protests. The Federation of All India Medical Association (FAIMA) indicated that many resident doctors' associations (RDAs) are aligned with its stance and will persist with the strike. A national meeting of RDAs, attended by over 90 representatives, supported this ongoing agitation.
AIIMS Delhi RDA to Continue Strike
The resident doctors’ association at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Delhi also announced that the strike would continue until there is a comprehensive assurance regarding doctor safety through stringent legislation, like the Central Healthcare Protection Act. The AIIMS RDA specified that their strike includes the suspension of academic activities, elective OPDs, ward services, and OT services, though emergency services and ICUs will remain functional.
Other Medical Institutions' Stance
The Resident Doctors of Maharashtra (MARD) and Junior Doctors' Associations in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh have also chosen to maintain their strike. This decision is mirrored by associations from various other institutions, including AIIMS in Patna, Bhubaneswar, Rishikesh, Mangalagiri, NIMHANS in Bengaluru, PGI Chandigarh, JIPMER, SGPGI Lucknow, IMS BHU, ESIC Joka, and KGMU Lucknow.
Safdarjung Hospital RDA to Continue Protest
The Resident Doctors' Association of Safdarjung Hospital announced it would continue the strike independently of FORDA and scheduled a meeting to discuss future actions.
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