Chief Secretary Manoj Pant visits junior doctors hunger strike amid unmet demands

Junior doctors in Kolkata are resolutely continuing their hunger strike, now entering its 15th day, as they demand action on ten key issues affecting their working conditions and patient care. The protestors have set a firm ultimatum: if their demands are not addressed by Monday, they will escalate their actions to a health strike scheduled for Tuesday, which could significantly impact healthcare services in the region.

In a significant move, Chief Secretary Manoj Pant, along with Home Secretary Nandini Chakraborty, visited the hunger strike site on Saturday. This visit marks the first engagement with the junior doctors after 15 days of silence from government officials. Pant's arrival was a crucial moment for the protestors, who have expressed frustration over the lack of communication and responsiveness from the administration regarding their urgent issues.

During the visit, Chief Secretary Pant and Home Secretary Chakraborty engaged directly with the junior doctors, inquiring about their health and discussing their grievances. They spent considerable time with protestors, including key figure Arnab, showing a willingness to listen and address their concerns. The junior doctors articulated their demands, which include improved salaries, enhanced working conditions, adequate staffing, and better resources for patient care. They argue that the current conditions jeopardize both their health and the health of the patients they serve.

Despite previous discussions suggesting that the Chief Minister might meet the protestors, her absence had added to the growing tension. Pant’s direct involvement signals a potential shift in the government's approach to the ongoing crisis, as he emphasized the importance of resolving the issues swiftly to ensure both the welfare of the doctors and the continuity of healthcare services. As the ultimatum approaches, the government faces increasing pressure to respond effectively to the junior doctors' demands.