Doctors in IIOJK stage protests, suspend services in solidarity with Kolkata rape victim
Srinagar: In a powerful display of solidarity, doctors from Government Medical Colleges in Srinagar and Jammu, along with their associated hospitals, have announced a suspension of medical services in response to the brutal rape and murder of a postgraduate trainee doctor in India’s Kolkata city on August 9.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the suspension of medical services follows an India-wide call from the Indian Medical Association (IMA), which has urged doctors across the country to observe a strike against the heinous crime. The IMA’s directive involves shutting down all non-essential hospital services across the country on Saturday.
In Srinagar, the normally quiet halls of Government Medical College (GMC) reverberated with shock and anger as doctors and medical students rallied against the horrific crime. The protest saw significant participation from both students and faculty, who carried placards reading “Justice for Our Sister,” “Safety for Doctors,” and “End Violence Against Women.” The demonstrators underscored the urgent need for enhanced safety measures for healthcare workers, who frequently face violence and threats in their profession.
The decision by GMC Srinagar doctors to suspend services reflects their dissatisfaction with the investigation into the Kolkata incident and broader concerns about safety for medical professionals and women. Their demands include immediate justice for the victim and the implementation of enhanced security measures at GMC Srinagar and its affiliated hospitals.
In Jammu, resident doctors from GMC and its associated hospitals organized a peaceful protest march from GMC to Super Speciality Hospital (SSH), calling for justice and improved security protocols. The protesters, holding placards with slogans such as “We Stand in Solidarity with the Victim” and “No Mercy for Rapists,” have suspended all non-essential and elective services, including OPDs, operating theaters, and ward services. They also voiced concerns about their own safety during night shifts due to insufficient security.
Students from GMC Rajouri joined the movement by participating in a candlelight march to honor the victim and demand better protection for medical professionals. Their banners and placards echoed calls for justice and enhanced safety measures. Various other organizations and associations have also organized protests and candlelight marches across the terriotry, expressing outrage and solidarity with the victim’s family.
The widespread demonstrations across IIOJK highlight a pressing demand for immediate action, comprehensive security reforms, and justice for victims of such heinous crimes.
