Junior doctors in Kolkata have labeled the removal of the city’s Police Commissioner Vineet Goyal and senior health officials as a “partial victory” in their ongoing protest against inadequate safety measures and public healthcare issues. The agitation, sparked by a recent rape-murder case, has seen doctors demanding comprehensive reforms and an overhaul of the healthcare system.
On Wednesday, the West Bengal government’s decision to appoint a new police commissioner and remove two senior officials from the health department was seen as a step towards addressing the doctors’ concerns. Despite this, the junior doctors have described the developments as only a partial win and have announced their intention to continue their cease-work strike until all their demands are met.
The move to replace Kolkata’s top cop and the health officials came after Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee claimed that her government had accepted “99%” of the doctors’ demands. Banerjee also urged the doctors to return to work, citing the strain on the state’s medical infrastructure due to their ongoing strike.
In response, the doctors have requested another meeting with Chief Minister Banerjee to address remaining issues. They are seeking clarity on measures for ensuring the safety and security of doctors in hospitals and a detailed plan for how the state intends to use the promised ₹100 crore to improve safety in state-run hospitals.
The doctors also emphasized the need for a comprehensive reform in the public healthcare delivery system. Their demands include streamlining the referral system, appointing health workers and professional patient counselors, addressing corruption in admissions, and ensuring the availability of life-saving drugs.
The junior doctors’ statement highlights the necessity for systemic changes and robust security measures to create a safer and more efficient healthcare environment in West Bengal.