Senior doctors at the prestigious R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata have tendered their mass resignation to support the agitating junior doctors. The junior doctors have been on hunger strike for five days, demanding improved working conditions, better infrastructure, and enhanced security measures at the hospital.
The resignation of over 50 senior doctors, including heads of departments and prominent specialists, has sent shockwaves through the state’s healthcare system. The situation now threatens to cripple one of Kolkata’s largest public healthcare institutions, leaving thousands of patients in the queue.
The letter, addressed to the Director of Medical Education and Ex. Officio Secretary of the Department of Health and Family Welfare, states: "We, senior doctors of R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital, are giving mass resignation as the government seems to be oblivious of the deteriorating condition of the doctors on hunger strike, and if the situation demands, we will also go for individual resignation." Shortly after signing the letter of mass resignation, a senior faculty member at RGKMCH made it clear that the doctors would not be quitting their jobs right away and would instead be continuing to provide patients with care for the time being.
The West Bengal government, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, has urged the striking doctors to return to work, assuring them that their demands will be taken seriously. In a press briefing, State Health Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya stated, “We are committed to resolving the doctors' concerns and improving the hospital’s infrastructure. However, patient care must not be compromised in the process.”
Despite government assurances, the doctors appear determined to continue their protest until concrete steps are taken. The resident doctors have clarified that they will not resume duties unless their key demands, such as better security measures, sufficient medical equipment, and an overhaul of the hospital’s infrastructure, are met.
As the stalemate continues, R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital remains in a state of crisis, with patient care severely impacted. The mass resignation of senior doctors marks a critical juncture in the ongoing protest, highlighting the need for immediate reform in West Bengal’s public healthcare system. The coming days will be crucial as both doctors and the government navigate the growing pressure to find a resolution that ensures the well-being of both medical professionals and patients alike.
