Tripura Medicos join nationwide stir over R.G. Kar Medical College tragedy, halt OPD services

In response to the recent tragedy at R.G. Kar Medical College, where a doctor was tragically raped and murdered on August 9, medical professionals in Tripura have joined a nationwide strike organized by the Indian Medical Association (IMA).

Starting from 6 AM on August 17, doctors and hospital staff across the state halted non-essential medical services for 24 hours, resuming operations at 6 AM on August 18. Emergency services, however, continued as usual.

The IMA Tripura State Branch issued a directive for both private and government medical facilities to cease outpatient department (OPD) services for the day, with the exception of emergencies. Demonstrations and rallies took place across the state, including in Agartala, where medical personnel voiced their outrage and demanded justice for the victim.

Dr. Damodar Chatterjee, President of the Agartala Government Medical College (AGMC) Teachers Forum and former IMA Tripura Branch President, condemned the incident as an act of barbarism. He emphasized the importance of solidarity in the wake of such violence and called for stringent legal action against the perpetrator. “This incident has united medical professionals across the country. We are demanding that the law act decisively and ensure that the responsible individual is held accountable,” he stated.

Dr. Shankar Chakraborty, Medical Superintendent of G.B. Pant Hospital, echoed these sentiments. He described the crime as heinous and underscored the commitment of healthcare workers to continue providing emergency care while participating in the protest. “We stand in solidarity with the victim and demand strict punishment for those responsible. Our services are focused on emergency care today, but our message is clear: justice must be served swiftly,” he said.

The strike saw participation from various medical forums and institutions, reflecting widespread condemnation of the crime and a collective call for justice.