Kolkata: The cease-work agitation by junior doctors in West Bengal's government hospitals has now reached its 22nd day, severely impacting services in the Outpatient Departments (OPDs). As protests intensify, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has written a second letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging the implementation of a strict central law and a fixed time frame for trials in cases of rape and murder.
On Friday, a series of protest marches were held, with more planned later in the day. These demonstrations involved various political groups, including the Trinamool Congress's student wing and the BJP's women's wing, as well as civil society members. The protests are focused on demanding justice for the alleged rape and murder of a 31-year-old female doctor at R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital.
The doctors are continuing their agitation, pressing the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to expedite the investigation into the tragic incident that occurred on August 9. The case, which has drawn significant public attention, was taken over by the CBI two weeks ago.
In her latest letter dated August 29, which she shared on social media, Mamata Banerjee reiterated her call for a stringent central legislation. She emphasized the need for "exemplary punishment for heinous crimes of rape and murder," along with a mandatory provision for the swift disposal of such cases by trial authorities.
Banerjee had previously written to the Prime Minister on August 22, expressing similar concerns.
Meanwhile, Sandip Ghosh, the former principal of R.G. Kar Medical College and one of the suspects in the case, appeared before federal agency officials for the 15th consecutive day on Friday.
In a show of solidarity, hundreds of parents marched silently through Kolkata, demanding justice for the deceased doctor and calling for a safer environment for both the younger and older generations.
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