Resident doctors stage dharna at OPD block of Kalpana Chawla hospital in Karnal

Karnal, August 20

The strike of the resident doctors, interns and MBBS students at Kalpana Chawla Government Medical College (KCGMC) entered its fifth day today. They have been demanding justice for the postgraduate trainee doctor who was raped and murdered in Kolkata.

The protesters staged a dharna in the outpatient department (OPD) block today, where they apprised patients and their attendants about the tragic incident and sought their support. They also called for the implementation of the Central Protection Act to ensure the safety and security of medical professionals in the workplace.

The strike has put extra pressure on other staff members, impacting patient care in both OPD and inpatient department (IPD).

The protesting doctors, students and interns expressed concern over the incident, saying that it had shaken the entire nation. They said that the protest was not only a show of solidarity with the victim doctor but also a wake-up call for the public. “The entire nation stands with her. Today’s protest aimed to raise public awareness,” said a student.

“Our purpose of protesting in the OPD block is to raise awareness among people about the incident. We also wanted to explain why we were compelled to protest and why the OPD services are affected,” said another protesting student.

Another student emphasised the need for the Union Government to strictly enforce the Central Protection Act to ensure the safety of medical professionals. “This is not the first time such a serious incident has occurred. No lessons have been learnt. We demand strict punishment for those involved,” said another protester.

As per a senior doctor, the number of patients remains nearly the same, around 2,500 per day in the OPD, but reduced manpower has affected services in both the OPD and IPD. “We have to work extra to meet the demands of the patients,” the doctor said.

Dr MK Garg, Director of KCGMC, said that all necessary measures have been taken for the safety and security of doctors, staff members, students and interns. Security has been increased on the premises, with additional streetlights installed and any black spots addressed. Students have been advised to avoid going out late unless on duty and security guards will accompany them from their hostels or quarters to their duty stations. “We are making all efforts to ensure the smooth functioning of the OPD, IPD and other health services in the hospital,” said the Director.