Kolkata: Amid the suo motu case proceedings regarding the rape and murder of the PG trainee doctor at RG Kar Hospital before the Supreme Court, which is also monitoring the safety conditions of doctors at their workplace, the doctors have highlighted the declining safety and working conditions for the healthcare workers in the State.
Issuing a Press Release in this regard on October 1, 2024, the West Bengal Doctors Forum mentioned, "The tragic incident involving Abhaya has brought to light the systemic issues affecting our health sector."
As per the association, the health sector is plagued by a lack of effective safety measures and accountability for the well-being of doctors, leaving them vulnerable in their workplace.
In this regard, WBDF referred to the recent instances of violence against doctors and nurses at Sagore Dutta Medical College, Calcutta National Medical College, Rampurhat Medical College, Peerless Hospital, Apollo Multispeciality Hospital, etc., and highlighted that these instances testify that the "safety and security promises made by the government are only on paper".
Government is Blaming the Doctors: WBDF-
In the release, the association mentioned that without building confidence or taking remedial actions, the Government has chosen to blame doctors for patient deaths without evidence. "Many of these deaths are due to underlying medical conditions rather than negligence," it mentioned in the release.
The doctors further alleged that instead of addressing the serious infrastructural deficiencies in the public healthcare system, the authorities have resorted to scapegoating the medical community, which demoralizes healthcare professionals and shifts attention away from real issues.
Speedy Legal & Investigative Processes are Required:
WBDF further opined that the investigation agencies and the legal system must expedite the entrusted processes and take proactive measures to ensure that all criminals and their accomplices are brought to justice.
WBDF Demands Suspension of Doctors Associated with Threat Syndicate:
The association has also demanded the suspension of the doctors who have been part of the "threat syndicate". "Individuals associated with the systemic failure of the healthcare sector—including those in law enforcement and other allied agencies like the West Bengal Medical Council—who have been part of this *threat syndicate must immediately step down or be suspended. This step is essential for a free, fair, and transparent investigation," it mentioned in the release.
Emphasizing that healthcare services cannot thrive without a secure and supportive environment for doctors and medical staff, the association demanded immediate actions to restore trust, ensure the safety of healthcare workers, improve healthcare infrastructure, and uphold justice.
Meanwhile, the Supreme Court while considering the RG Kar case, criticised the West Bengal Government yesterday over its "tardiness" in installing CCTVs, and building toilets to ensure the safety of resident doctors at their workplace.
Taking note of the submission of the West Bengal Government's counsel that the works would be completed by 31st October, the Apex Court bench comprising the Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra observed, "...the status report submitted by WB indicates the ongoing work ....thought the state has indicated that remaining work will be completed by 31st October, but state has assured that it will make all endeavours to complete the work by 15th October 2024."
Also Read: RG Kar Case: 'Why Progress on safety measures so tardy?' SC pulls up WB Govt, seeks National Task Force's Report