Doctors at AIIMS and RML hospital call off 11-day strike after Supreme Court appeal
New Delhi, August 22
The 11-day strike by resident doctors at AIIMS and RML hospital has come to an end. The resident doctors association (RDA) here have announced that its members will return to work, following an appeal by the Supreme Court.
Meanwhile, Federation of All India Medical Association (FAIMA), is holding a meeting with RDAs nationwide to discuss the way forward.
The strike, which began on August 10, was sparked by the brutal murder of a trainee doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The incident highlighted the need for improved security measures at healthcare facilities.
In a statement, the AIIMS RDA expressed gratitude to the Supreme Court for taking cognisance of the incident and addressing the broader issue of safety and security for healthcare workers. The association also welcomed the formation of a National Task Force to ensure prompt and effective action.
“Furthermore, we appreciate the court’s directive that no punitive action be taken against the protesting doctors,” they added in the statement.
While the strike has been called off, resident doctors at AIIMS will continue with symbolic protests after duty hours. Meanwhile, RML resident doctors have requested that their salaries not be deducted and that they not be marked absent for the duration of the strike.