New Delhi, August 2024 – Despite nationwide protests for Central Protection Act, strikes, and widespread public outrage following the brutal rape and murder of a doctor at R.G. Kar Medical College, the medical community is disheartened by the government’s lackluster response. The only tangible outcome so far has been a series of vague assurances, while incidents of violence against doctors continue to escalate across the country. The much-needed Central Protection Act, which would safeguard healthcare professionals, remains stalled, leaving doctors vulnerable and frustrated.
Influencer Dr. Dhruv Chauhan wrote “Calling off the doctors strike was probably the biggest mistake being done. Because forget about Central protection act now there is more incidents of attacks on doctors being reported and shameless administration of hospitals do not even file an FIR unless pressure is created“.
A Nationwide Cry for Justice
The medical fraternity across India has united in an unprecedented manner, holding candlelight marches, shutting down services, and staging protests to demand justice for their fallen colleague and better protection for themselves. From major hospitals in metropolitan cities to small clinics in rural areas, doctors and medical students have voiced their anger and concern over the rising violence against healthcare professionals.
Despite these efforts, the government has responded with little more than promises. The repeated assurances of addressing the issue and protecting doctors have yet to translate into concrete action. This lack of urgency has left many in the medical community feeling betrayed and abandoned by the very system they serve.
Rising Violence and Government Inaction
As protests continue, so too does the violence against doctors. Reports of assaults on healthcare workers have surged, with recent incidents in several states highlighting the growing danger doctors face daily. From physical attacks by patients’ relatives to organized mob violence, the threat to medical professionals has never been more apparent.
Yet, the government remains silent on implementing the Central Protection Act, a crucial piece of legislation designed to safeguard doctors and healthcare workers from such attacks. The act, which has been under discussion for years, proposes stringent penalties for those who assault medical professionals and damage healthcare facilities. However, its progress has been stalled, leaving doctors to fend for themselves in an increasingly hostile environment.
Frustration and Fear in the Medical Community
The failure to enact the National Protection Act has left doctors across the country feeling disillusioned and vulnerable. The sense of fear is palpable, with many doctors questioning their safety and ability to perform their duties without the constant threat of violence. The ongoing strikes and protests, though powerful, have not yet yielded the desired results, further deepening the frustration within the medical community.
“Our demand is Central Protection Act but All we have received are empty promises,” said Ritesh Srivastava, cofounder of Med College Darshan. “We risk our lives every day to save others, and in return, we are met with violence and indifference. How much longer can we continue like this?”
Calls for Immediate Action & Central Protection Act
Medical associations, including the Indian Medical Association (IMA), have repeatedly called for the swift passage of the Central Protection Act and the immediate implementation of measures to safeguard healthcare workers. They argue that without such protections, the healthcare system itself is at risk, as doctors may be forced to leave the profession or refuse to work in high-risk areas.
“The government’s inaction is not just an insult to the memory of our slain colleague but a direct threat to the future of healthcare in India,” said Nawazish, spokesperson of UDFA . “We need more than words; we need action.”
The Road Ahead
As the medical community continues to push for change and implementation of Central Protection Act, the question remains: will the government finally listen? The ongoing protests and strikes are a clear indication that doctors will not back down until their demands are met. However, the longer the government delays, the more the situation escalates, with the potential for further unrest and disruption in healthcare services.
For now, the doctors of India remain united in their cause, but the growing sense of urgency and fear means that time is running out for the government to act. The medical fraternity has made its stand clear—now it’s up to the government to respond with more than just empty assurances.
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