Resident doctors hold protest at GMC Srinagar, demand enhanced security

Srinagar, Aug 17: Resident doctors at Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar and its Associated Hospitals staged a protest today, condemning the alleged rape and murder of a resident doctor in Kolkata.

The protest was part of a nationwide withdrawal of medical services called by the Indian Medical Association (IMA).

According to a statement, elective services, including outpatient departments, wards, and elective surgeries, were suspended for the day. However, emergency services, emergency operations, and intensive care units remained functional.

The doctors marched from the college campus to the auditorium, where they joined the Medical Faculty Association (MFA) for a solidarity meeting. A two-minute silence was observed to honor the victim of the Kolkata incident.

During the meeting, resident doctors voiced their concerns about critical issues faced while on duty. The MFA pledged to work with the college administration to address these concerns promptly.

The resident doctors’ demands include swift investigation and punishment of the accused in the Kolkata case, implementation of the Central Protection Act, and enhanced security measures at GMC Srinagar, Associated Hospitals, and peripheral facilities. They also called for protection from institutional pressure or disciplinary action for strike participants and provision of hostel facilities for all resident doctors.

The protesters emphasised the need for 24/7 security personnel deployment, a gate pass system for attendants, and institutional FIRs for any violence against medical staff.

The resident doctors expressed hope that the administration would support their cause and implement concrete solutions to ensure the safety and security of doctors on duty.