Doctors Stage Protest in Kolkata Against State’s Puja Celebration!

by Arvind Kashyap
Doctors Hold Protest Meet In Kolkata, Facing Off State's Puja Carnival

Kolkata:

In breaking news from Kolkata, junior doctors have kicked off a significant protest dubbed ‘Droher Carnival’ today at Esplanade, right next to the bustling Durga Puja Carnival happening on Red Road.

Major Protest Amid Festivities

The Durga Puja Carnival, which has been a celebrated event showcasing some of the best idols in the city since 2016, has drawn large crowds. However, most people seemed to gather at the nearby protest area today to show their support for the junior doctors, who are currently participating in an indefinite hunger strike.

What Sparked the Hunger Strike?

This hunger strike, initiated on October 5, aims to seek justice for a young doctor who was tragically raped and murdered at Kolkata’s RG Kar hospital on August 9. The heartbreaking incident has led to widespread outrage, not only within the medical community but also among the public.

Doctors’ Health Affected

As of now, the number of doctors on hunger strike has reached seven, with the recent addition of Rumelika Kumar from the All India Institute of Hygiene & Public Health and Spandan Chowdhury from Midnapore Medical College & Hospital. This effort has been taxing on their health; five of the participating junior doctors have already required hospitalization due to their deteriorating conditions.

High Court Responds

Earlier today, the Calcutta High Court issued a ruling that lifted prohibitory orders in the areas near the Durga Puja Carnival on Red Road. This decision allowed the doctors to march and protest more freely, and it showed just how serious they are about their demands.

A Call for Justice

Spandan Chowdhury, one of the doctors fighting for justice, voiced the sentiments of his fellow protesters, saying, “Our protests on the issue have been ongoing for the last 66 days. Many of our fellow junior doctors are currently on hunger strike. We want to send a clear message to the state government and the Chief Minister that our protests on this vital issue will not stop.”

Community Support Grows

The support from the community has been incredible during this challenging time. Citizens have come out in droves to stand beside the junior doctors, showing their solidarity. This surge of support reflects the community’s deep concern over the safety of medical professionals and the urgent need for justice in this shocking case.

Looking Ahead

The ongoing hunger strike serves as a stark reminder of the broader societal issues facing the medical community in Kolkata and beyond. As the situation continues to unfold, more people are paying attention to the cries for justice and the need for a safer environment for healthcare workers.

As festive celebrations continue at the Durga Puja Carnival, the stark contrast between the joyous events and the serious protests highlights the urgent need for action. The fate of the doctors’ ongoing hunger strike hangs in the balance, with the hope that their voices will be heard by those in power.

Final Thoughts

The city remains tense as both events – the festive carnival and the somber protests – intersect. The junior doctors are standing firm in their fight for justice, and one can only hope that their perseverance leads to meaningful change and ensures the safety of medical professionals in the future.

As this story develops, the attention of the nation is focused on Kolkata, where the struggle for justice is intertwined with the spirit of celebration. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to follow this important issue.

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