Shimla/Mandi: The recent tragic incident in Kolkata, where a doctor was brutally raped and murdered, has sent shockwaves across India, with the ripple effects being felt even in Himachal Pradesh. While West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has blamed social media for spreading misinformation about the case, the outrage has escalated into a nationwide protest. This has led to an unprecedented reaction from the medical community, with Himachal Pradesh doctors now planning a one-day strike in solidarity.
Doctors in Himachal Pradesh are deeply disturbed by the Kolkata incident and the lack of swift action. In a show of protest, doctors across the state will strike on Saturday, demanding justice for the victim and better protection for medical professionals. This strike is not just a reaction to the incident but a call for systemic change to ensure that healthcare workers can perform their duties without fear for their lives.
On Friday, doctors across Himachal Pradesh wore black badges as they continued their duties, symbolizing their outrage and demand for justice. Dr. Amit Thakur, President of the Himachal Pradesh Medical Officers’ Association in Mandi district, emphasized that this strike is a necessary step to ensure that such horrific incidents do not happen again. The medical community is calling for the immediate arrest of the perpetrators, fast-track justice, and government assurances of safety for doctors.
The decision to strike was reached during a state-level online meeting of the Himachal Pradesh Medical Officers’ Association, led by State President Dr. Rajesh Rana. The association decided that doctors would continue to wear black badges until the government takes concrete steps to protect them.
Private hospitals across Himachal Pradesh will also join the strike, further amplifying the call for action. Dr. Thakur warned that if the government does not respond adequately, an indefinite strike could follow, signaling the gravity of the situation.
The medical community’s unified action underscores the deep impact of the Kolkata tragedy, showing how a single incident can disrupt healthcare services across the country.
