Kolkata: In a bid to end the ongoing impasse between the West Bengal government and junior doctors, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee made a surprise visit to the protest site at Swasthya Bhawan, Salt Lake, on Saturday. Assuring the medics that she would address their demands, Banerjee described her visit as the “last attempt” to resolve the crisis, which has now spanned over a month.
Speaking to the crowd of junior doctors, Banerjee said she would look into the rape and murder case of a doctor at RG Kar Medical College and ensure that justice is served. She further promised no action would be taken against the protesting doctors, emphasizing that she does not believe in suppressing democratic movements, in a sharp contrast to states like Uttar Pradesh, where protests are often dismantled under the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA).
“I have been spending sleepless nights knowing that you are out on the streets in this weather. I came here not as the Chief Minister but as your ‘didi’,” Banerjee said, amid chants of “we want justice” from the protestors.
The junior doctors, however, remain firm in their demands, calling for discussions with the government before they return to work. Despite welcoming the Chief Minister’s gesture, they insisted that no compromise would be made until a proper dialogue takes place.
Doctors Demand Discussions
After Banerjee’s departure, the junior doctors reiterated their stance, stating that while they appreciated her visit, no resolution could be reached without direct talks with the state government. “We welcome the CM’s gesture, but we will not compromise on our demands until proper discussions are held,” said a representative of the protestors. The doctors are also demanding the live-streaming of any meeting with the state, a demand that was declined earlier when the government invited them for talks on Thursday.
The protesting doctors, who have been camped outside Swasthya Bhawan since Tuesday, are seeking improved security at state-run hospitals and the removal of top officials following the murder of one of their colleagues. Their agitation has severely impacted public healthcare services, with the government claiming that 29 people have died due to delayed treatment during the strike.
CM Dissolves Hospital Committees
In a significant announcement, Banerjee declared that patient welfare committees at all state-run hospitals would be dissolved immediately and reconstituted under the leadership of hospital principals. These new committees will include representatives from junior doctors, senior doctors, nurses, and the police.
CM’s Plea to Protestors
Banerjee urged the junior doctors to end their protest and return to work, assuring them that their concerns would be addressed. “If you have faith in me, I will ensure that your complaints are looked into,” she said. Banerjee also urged them to take caution amid rumors of potential attacks, warning the doctors not to accept food or drink from strangers.
As the stalemate continues, all eyes are on the Supreme Court, which is set to hear the case on Tuesday. Banerjee expressed hope for a resolution before the court intervenes, stating, “I don’t want you to suffer. If you trust me, I promise to handle this matter with care.”
The crisis has drawn widespread attention, as it highlights both the challenges within the healthcare system and the ongoing political struggles in West Bengal. With no immediate breakthrough in sight, the standoff between the government and the medical community looks set to continue, with the lives of patients hanging in the balance.
