GMC Srinagar, Associated Hospitals doctors to suspend medical services

Srinagar, Aug 16: The resident doctors of GMC Srinagar and its Associated Hospitals have strongly condemned the brutal rape and murder of a resident doctor on duty in RG Kar Medical College, Kolkata on August 9. They announced the suspension of medical services.

“We express utmost solidarity with the departed soul. The incident, the improper investigation as well as the violence seen in the aftermath is a devastating tragedy not just for the medical community but for the entire nation and further highlights the dismal condition of doctor’s and women’s safety in our society,” a statement said.

“The Indian Medical Association has called for a nationwide withdrawal of medical services. In accordance with the same and due to the unfortunate situation of no present association to represent the resident doctors of GMC Srinagar, it is the collective decision of the resident doctors to join IMA’s call. Hence, no elective services (OPDs, wards and elective OTs) shall be attended by resident doctors of GMC Srinagar with effect from 6am 17 August as per IMA notice. However, emergency services, emergency OT’s and ICU’s will continue to operate.”

“It is unfortunate for us to have to come to this decision but it is a matter of our safety and security which has long been disregarded by the concerned authorities. Zero tolerance can be afforded in this regard. Our demands are as follows: Urgent dispension of justice to the accused in the case, implementation of Central Protection Act, immediate implementation of enhanced security measures in GMC Srinagar and its Associated Hospitals including, 24×7 deployment of security personnel at all hospital checkpoints, indoor wards and OT’S, enforcement of gate pass system for attendants and institutional FIR in the event of any violence against doctors and staff on duty.”