A wave of unrest has swept across the country following the tragic incident involving a resident doctor in Kolkata. This has ignited widespread anger among resident doctors, who are now demanding stronger security measures. In response, the Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors (MARD) is leading a protest at Azad Maidan today at 1 pm, calling for the urgent implementation of a Central Health Protection Act.

Nationwide Outrage and the Call for Action

The incident in Kolkata has triggered a nationwide movement among resident doctors, bonded doctors, senior resident doctors, and inter-resident students. United in their demand, they insist on the creation of a Central Health Protection Act to ensure their safety. MARD has made it clear that they will not back down until they receive a written assurance from the Central Government regarding the establishment of this act.

Rally at Azad Maidan

Today’s protest at Azad Maidan is expected to draw thousands of medical professionals. Central MARD has instructed all participants to maintain discipline and ensure that the demonstration remains peaceful. Starting from 10 am, resident doctors from hospitals such as KEM, Nair, Shiv, Cooper, and J.J. began marching towards Azad Maidan, chanting slogans and expressing their grievances.

Government Response

On August 15, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde met with MARD representatives and communicated their demands to the Union Home Minister and Health Minister, promising to address the issue soon. However, the resident doctors remain steadfast in their demand for immediate action.

Impact on Health Services

In solidarity with the strike, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) has announced that all doctors affiliated with the association will suspend health services from 8 am on Saturday to 8 am on Sunday. Essential services such as emergency care and accident departments will remain operational, but outpatient services and surgeries will be halted in private hospitals across the country. This widespread disruption is expected to have a significant impact on healthcare services nationwide.

The protest by resident doctors underscores the urgent need for better security and protection in the healthcare sector, and the nation watches closely as this critical issue unfolds.