Nationwide Doctors’ Strike in India to Protest Rape and Murder of Trainee Medic

Nationwide Doctors’ have launched a strike to demand enhanced protection for healthcare workers following the rape and murder of a trainee medic in West Bengal.

The body of the resident doctor was discovered last Friday with multiple injuries and signs of sexual assault in a seminar hall at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata.

Police have arrested one suspect in connection with the case

On Monday, medical associations in several states called on doctors at government hospitals to halt all elective procedures indefinitely.

They are demanding a swift judicial process for the case and the creation of a protective committee for healthcare workers.

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Around 300,000 Doctors Nationwide Join Protest Over Trainee Doctor’s Death

Dr. Pandey of FORDA said nearly 300,000 doctors have protested, with more expected to join tomorrow.

2015 Survey Reveals Key Insights on Indian Medical Association found 75% of doctors in India had faced some form of violence, local media reported at the time.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed shock at the trainee doctor’s murder and backed calls for a swift judicial process.

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India Reports 31,516 Rape Cases in 2022, Averaging 86 Per Day

In 2022, India’s National Crime Records Bureau reported 31,516 rape cases, averaging 86 cases per day. However, experts caution that this number may represent only a fraction of the actual incidents.

The case and ensuing nationwide protests drew international media scrutiny – and prompted authorities to enact legal reforms.