Jr doctors demand justice for Abhaya as conditions worsen; confirm protest at Droh carnival

In a press conference held at 9:30 PM, Debashish Halder, a representative of the junior doctors, provided a troubling update on the health of their colleagues. Among the four doctors admitted to hospitals due to physical deterioration, two are currently stable in Kolkata, while one at North Bengal Medical College remains in critical condition. Particularly concerning is the status of a doctor on a hunger strike in North Bengal, who has now gone seven days without water. As the situation grows dire, Halder emphasized that no significant action has been taken by the government despite the 193 hours that have elapsed since the protest began.

The junior doctors expressed their frustration with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's silence on the matter, reiterating that if one of them requires intensive care, ten more will step up to continue the movement. Their primary demand is justice for their colleague, Abhaya, alongside additional demands for improved conditions. Today's incident at SSKM Hospital further underscores the perceived lack of safety within hospitals and for patients' relatives outside, which the doctors have previously highlighted.

Responding to Chief Secretary Manoj Panth’s email regarding the Droh Carnival, the junior doctors confirmed that their protests will not disrupt the Pooja Carnival, despite fears to the contrary. Halder stated, “We appreciate the High Court’s ruling, but we are not mentally ready to accept the administration's acceptance of the carnival while our protests continue.” He reassured that their approach would be peaceful, stating, “We don’t want to give any chance to the police.”

Fellow agitator Subarna Goswami expressed her concerns, saying, “While we must withdraw the carnival of betrayal, it’s challenging to do so. Rape and looting continue, and those who protest face police torture. This cannot happen.” The junior doctors remain committed to their cause while navigating the complex legal landscape surrounding their protests.

Looking ahead, the junior doctors have announced plans for a march to Raj Bhavan on October 14 and a human chain on October 15, during the Chief Minister's carnival, ensuring they will not disrupt the event due to a High Court order. They encouraged participation in protests outside medical colleges and urged individuals not to be provoked by police during the demonstrations.