Mamata Banerjee Visits Protesting Doctors Amid Kolkata Crisis

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee made an unexpected visit to protesting doctors in Kolkata, addressing their grievances and urging them to resume work. This move comes in the wake of the tragic rape and murder of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital.

Protests Over Trainee Doctor's Tragic Incident

The doctors have been staging a sit-in at Swasthya Bhavan, the headquarters of the West Bengal health department, since a trainee doctor was raped and murdered at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The protests have been ongoing for over a month, with calls for justice and better security measures.

Mamata Banerjee's Address

Ms. Banerjee, in her address, struck a conciliatory tone, acknowledging the doctors' plight and expressing her solidarity with their cause. "Please listen to me for five minutes and then shout slogans, it is your democratic right to do so. I couldn't sleep last night because I was feeling bad for you," she said.

Government's Assurances

The Chief Minister assured the doctors that their demands would be seriously considered. "I will study the demands, I don't run the government alone. I will speak to the chief secretary, home secretary, and director general of police. Action will be taken against those who are found guilty," she promised.

Calls for Justice and Security

Ms. Banerjee also requested the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to expedite the investigation into the tragic incident. She emphasized the need for justice for the victim, Tilottama, and assured the doctors that their voices were being heard.

Urging Doctors to Return to Work

Highlighting the impact of the protests on healthcare services, Ms. Banerjee urged the doctors to return to work. "Many patients have died because they did not get proper healthcare. Return to work. I will ensure that no injustice happens," she pleaded.

Transparent Discussions

The doctors have welcomed Ms. Banerjee's visit but have insisted on a transparent meeting to discuss their demands. They seek a live telecast of the discussions to ensure transparency and accountability.

Background of the Protest

The West Bengal government had previously invited the doctors for talks, but these were stalled over various demands, including the resignation of certain officials and the live streaming of the meetings. Ms. Banerjee, addressing these concerns, apologized for the delays and reiterated her commitment to resolving the crisis.

Demands of the Protesting Doctors

The doctors have outlined five key demands: holding all individuals responsible for the rape and murder accountable, taking disciplinary action against former RG Kar Medical College and Hospital Principal Sandip Ghosh, the resignation of Kolkata Police Commissioner Vineet Goyal and Health Secretary Narayan Swaroop Nigam, ensuring adequate security measures for healthcare workers, and eliminating a 'threat culture' in government healthcare institutions.

Conclusion

The visit by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee marks a significant step towards resolving the impasse between the government and the protesting doctors. As the discussions continue, the focus remains on ensuring justice for the victim and addressing the legitimate concerns of the medical community.