Kolkata Doctors Protest as Police Summon Ahead of Anniversary

The first anniversary of the tragic rape and murder of a junior doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata is approaching, prompting renewed protests from the West Bengal Junior Doctors’ Front (WBJDF). Scheduled for August 8 and 9, these demonstrations come as the Kolkata Police has issued summons to several junior doctors and medical students involved in last year’s agitation.

The summons, which have sparked controversy, ask at least six medical professionals to appear for questioning regarding the protests that followed the alleged crime. These individuals are facing charges stemming from the FIRs registered during the August 2023 Esplanade protest, which include unlawful assembly and causing harm to police officers. WBJDF leaders contend that these actions are a targeted attempt to intimidate them ahead of their planned protests. Dr. Debasis Halder, an anaesthesiologist and WBJDF leader, stated, “What is the motive of digging up the cases days before we renew our movement on August 8 and 9? We will not be intimidated.”

Protests Planned for Anniversary of the Tragedy

The protests set for August 8-15 are expected to draw significant attention as they mark the anniversary of the crime that shocked the medical community. The body of the junior doctor was discovered on August 9, 2023, in a seminar hall of the hospital. Sanjay Roy, a civic volunteer, has been sentenced to life imprisonment for the act, but questions remain regarding a larger conspiracy linked to the crime. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has been tasked with exploring these allegations, although they have yet to complete their investigation.

The upcoming demonstrations not only aim to protest against the state administration but also focus on the perceived shortcomings of the CBI’s investigation. Activists are calling for accountability and a thorough examination of the events surrounding the case.

Legal Challenges and State Response

In recent developments, some of the prominent faces of the protests, including Aniket Mahato, Ashfaqulla Naiya, and Debasis Halder, have sought legal recourse to challenge their transfers ordered by the state Health Department. In May 2024, they approached the High Court to contest the decision, arguing that the transfers to districts far from their original postings were punitive measures aimed at silencing their dissent.

The High Court has temporarily halted these transfer orders, allowing the doctors to remain in their positions while their case is heard. The swift transfers, which occurred just months after their initial appointments, have raised concerns about the state administration’s motives and commitment to ensuring safety and justice for medical professionals.

As the anniversary of the RG Kar case approaches, the tension between the protesting doctors and the authorities continues to escalate, highlighting ongoing issues of safety and accountability within the medical community in West Bengal. The outcome of the protests and legal challenges may significantly shape the future landscape for healthcare professionals in the region.