Itanagar, August 16, 2024 — In a strong response to the recent brutal rape and murder of a resident doctor at RG Kar Medical College in Kolkata, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) Arunachal Pradesh Branch has called for a 24-hour shutdown of all routine medical services across the state. The protest will commence at 6 AM on August 17 and continue until 6 AM on August 18, affecting outpatient departments (OPD), elective surgeries, and non-essential services in government and private hospitals, as well as in NGO-run institutions and private clinics.
The shutdown is driven by widespread outrage within the medical community and aims to address what is perceived as inadequate governmental response to violence against healthcare workers. Dr. Kesang Wangdi Thongdok, President of IMA Arunachal Pradesh, emphasized that the protest is a reaction to both the heinous crime and recent violent attacks on junior doctors who were protesting the incident.
The IMA has outlined several key demands as part of their protest:
- Immediate Arrest and Trial: Urging for the swift arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the attack, seeking maximum penalties.
- Central Law for Protection: Advocacy for the creation of a central legislation to safeguard healthcare professionals from violence and harassment.
- Special Protected Zones: Request for the declaration of all healthcare institutions as special protected zones.
- Strengthening Safety Regulations: Empowerment of the National Medical Council to implement strict safety regulations for medical students and professionals nationwide.
The decision to shut down routine services underscores the medical community’s frustration and calls for urgent reforms to ensure the safety and protection of healthcare workers across India.