Kolkata doctor death: Junior doctors at Ranchi's RIMS continue 'pen-down' stir

RANCHI: Junior doctors at the Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Ranchi, Jharkhand, persisted in their 'pen down' protest for the second day on Wednesday, in response to the rape and murder of a woman doctor at a hospital in Kolkata. They voiced approval of the Calcutta High Court's decision to initiate a CBI probe into the case.
"We have decided to continue our agitation at RIMS on Wednesday in solidarity with several associations in other states," said Ankit Kumar, president of the Junior Doctors' Association (JDA) at RIMS.
The tragic incident occurred , when the body of the woman doctor was discovered in a seminar hall at the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata. A civic volunteer was subsequently arrested the next day in connection to the crime.
"We demand an immediate transfer of the case to the CBI, as ongoing activities surrounding RG Kar Medical College in Kolkata are fueling suspicions," Kumar stated.
Outpatient departments (OPDs) and elective operation theatre (OT) services at RIMS were affected as part of the protest. However, emergency services remained operational, with additional doctors deployed to ensure patient care.
The junior doctors underscored the necessity of a central law to protect doctors in their workplaces. "Special security arrangements should also be implemented for women doctors working at night shifts or during late hours," Kumar added.
In response to the agitation, RIMS authorities proposed the establishment of two police posts on the campus and the installation of 1,200 CCTV cameras.
Authorities reported that on Tuesday, OPD services were provided to 271 patients, while inpatient department (IPD) services were extended to 149 patients.
The protesters welcomed enhanced security measures and continued to press for nationwide reforms to ensure the safety and security of medical professionals.