FAIMA calls for nationwide shutdown of elective services from Oct 14 in solidarity with Jr doctors

The Federation of All India Medical Associations (FAIMA) has officially announced a nationwide boycott of elective medical services starting October 14, 2024. This decision comes in solidarity with junior doctors in West Bengal who are protesting the brutal rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College. The tragic incident, which occurred in August, has led to widespread outrage among healthcare professionals and has galvanized them to demand better safety and working conditions across the country.

In a statement released on social media, FAIMA highlighted the urgency of their stance, stating, “We demand action and safety for all healthcare professionals in West Bengal and throughout the country.” The organization expressed that after exhaustive discussions, they unanimously decided it was time to unite on a national scale. They have requested all medical associations and resident doctors to join in this boycott while ensuring that emergency services remain operational to prevent patients from suffering due to the strike.

The hunger strike initiated by junior doctors in West Bengal has now entered its ninth day. Many participants have reported deteriorating health conditions as they continue to press for urgent reforms and justice for their murdered colleague. Their demands include immediate removal of the state’s Health Secretary, enhanced workplace security, and a commitment to preventing violence against medical professionals. Despite these pressing issues, the state government claims that healthcare services in state-run hospitals have not been disrupted.

Adding to the gravity of the situation, over 50 senior doctors from RG Kar Medical College have submitted collective resignation letters in a show of solidarity with their junior colleagues. This mass resignation reflects the deep frustration within the medical community regarding the state administration's inaction in addressing the safety and security of healthcare professionals. As junior doctors continue their hunger strike, the atmosphere in the medical community remains tense, with heightened calls for accountability and reform.

Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar has publicly urged the people of West Bengal, along with BJP workers, to join the protests. He criticized the West Bengal government for failing to fulfill commitments made during previous discussions with the medical community. Majumdar emphasized that the demands of the protesting doctors are legitimate and deserve immediate attention, reiterating the need for collective action to safeguard healthcare workers.