IMA Says Safe Working Conditions Not a Luxury, Seeks Bengal CM Mamata’s Attention

New Delhi: The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has urged the West Bengal government to immediately address the issues of junior doctors, sitting on a hunger strike over the alleged rape and murder of a junior doctor on August 9. 

In a letter to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, IMA said a safe working environment is not a luxury but a prerequisite.  “Peaceful ambience and security are not a luxury. They are a prerequisite. We appeal to your good self to settle the issues with the young generation (of) doctors as an elder and the head of the government,” it said.

It also drew her attention to the doctors, who have been on a hunger strike for almost a week. “The state government is fully capable of fulfilling the demands of the protesting doctors. The entire medical fraternity of India is concerned and trusts (that) you will be able to save their lives,” it added.

Notably, one junior doctor, Aniket Mahato, on fast admitted to hospital after his condition worsened.

Junior doctors launched a “cease work” protest on August 9. The strike, which lasted 42 days, ended on September 21 after the state government assured them that their demands would be addressed. 

However, dissatisfied with the government’s response, they began an indefinite fast on October 5 evening at Dorina Crossing in Dharmatala, central Kolkata.

The protesters are demanding justice for their colleague, the immediate removal of Health Secretary N S Nigam, and the formation of task forces to ensure the provision of essential facilities such as CCTV, on-call rooms, and washrooms at their workplaces.