The protest by junior doctors in Kolkata has escalated as they continue their hunger strike, demanding justice and protection. The doctors have been on strike for over two months, and their movement has gained momentum, with plans for a mass signature collection campaign today to voice their ten-point demands.
Starting at noon, the doctors will gather signatures from the public, covering areas near Dharmatala, and distribute leaflets highlighting their cause. The Joint Platform of Doctors has made a statement emphasizing their resolve. “The real carnival will begin once all our demands are met. On that day, we will take over the Brigade Parade Ground,” the platform declared, sparking speculation about a potential mass rally at the iconic venue.
This has led to widespread discussion, as the movement takes a more public turn with increased participation. The doctors' movement, which began with a strike, transitioned into a hunger strike and later evolved into what they call a "carnival of betrayal" (Droh Carnival) in protest of unmet demands. The latest step in their campaign is the signature collection, a bid to raise awareness among the people of Kolkata.
However, the protest has not been without criticism. Trinamool leader Kunal Ghosh dismissed the movement, referring to it as "cheap propaganda." Taking a dig at the possibility of a brigade rally, Ghosh commented, "Doctors can hold a brigade rally, but will they go with CPM leaders like Dr. Kanti Ganguly and Dr. Sushant Ghosh?" He also accused the protest of being politically motivated, stating that CPM workers were seen attending previous meetings.