Following an 11-day nationwide strike triggered by the gruesome rape and murder of a junior doctor at the RG Kar Medical College in Kolkata, resident doctors are all set to resume duty, with hospitals expected to function at full capacity from Friday, August 23. The outpatient department (OPD) and elective services, which were earlier suspended due to the strike, are now likely to be restored.
Doctors call off strike after Supreme Court appeal
This decision comes just hours after the Supreme Court appealed to the Federation of Resident Doctors Associations (FORDA) on August 22 to call off the strike and ensure the continuity of health services across the country. The Court acknowledged the importance of addressing the concerns raised by medical professionals, but stressed that “justice and medicine” should not be stopped. Furthermore, the Court ordered that no coercive measures be taken against the striking doctors and called for their immediate return to work, guaranteeing their safety.
FORDA calls for a strike
In response to the Supreme Court order and in the interest of patient care, FORDA called on all its members late on Thursday to temporarily suspend the strike and resume work from Friday. The association clarified that this suspension does not mean the end of its protest, but rather a temporary measure, and that it plans to reassess the situation in two weeks depending on the progress of its demands.
“FORDA has been at the forefront of the movement, advocating for justice for Abhaya and safety of resident doctors through its legal cell. We extend our deepest gratitude to the Hon’ble Supreme Court for taking cognizance of the RG Kar case and appreciate the acceptance of all our prayers and for its meticulous examination and resolution of the issues affecting the resident doctors community,” FORDA said in a statement.
“In light of these developments, and in the interest of patient care and our commitment to society, we wish to inform you that we have requested all RDAs to temporarily suspend the elective services strike and resume their duties as of 23/8/2024,” he added.
The association also sought assurances that no punitive action would be taken against resident doctors and that they should be considered on duty during this strike period. It stressed that there should be no cuts in assistance or salaries or stipends, as highlighted by the Supreme Court during its hearing.
READ MORE | Kolkata doctor rape and murder: CISF deploys 150 personnel at RG Kar Hospital following Supreme Court order
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