TMC leader mocks 'We want justice' slogan, sparks outrage among doctors

TMC leader Debu Tudu has stirred controversy after mocking junior doctors protesting with the slogan "We Want Justice." Speaking at a party victory event in Kalna’s Singerkon area, Tudu sarcastically questioned the relevance of the slogan, asking, “Have the British returned?” He went further, likening the protesting doctors to “red-masked communists” and said, “Now their children are demanding justice, but the British, Mao, and Marx are long gone.”

This remark comes amid ongoing protests by junior doctors across Bengal, demanding justice following recent incidents of violence and lack of safety measures in medical institutions. They have been pushing for better protection at work and government intervention in ensuring their safety. Junior doctor Urmimala Bhattacharya criticized Tudu’s statements, saying, “It seems Tudu is stuck in the past. Demanding justice is never outdated, and it’s essential when injustice prevails.”

Tudu’s comments also triggered strong reactions from political figures. Senior Left leader Sujan Chakraborty called Tudu's remarks ironic, reminding him that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee herself once led a protest march under the slogan "We Want Justice" after the Nandigram incident. Chakraborty added that Tudu’s mockery was out of touch with the people's demand for justice, particularly in a state where healthcare is under strain.

Doctors and political leaders are now clashing over the comments, with many seeing it as an attempt to undermine the legitimacy of the doctors' concerns. The protests, which began over workplace safety, are now gaining traction, with public support growing for the doctors’ demands.