Kolkata

The hunger strike by junior doctors at R.G. Kar Medical College & Hospital, initiated after the tragic rape and murder of a fellow doctor, has reached its thirteenth day as of Thursday. Currently, eight doctors are on hunger strike seven in Kolkata and one in Siliguri pressuring the state government to take action.

Since the strike began on October 5, six participants have been hospitalized due to severe health issues. Among those affected are Tanaya Panja and Anustup Mukhopadhyay from Calcutta Medical College, and Aniket Mahatao from R.G. Kar Medical College.

The remaining strikers, including Arnab Mukhopadhay, Snigdha Hazra, and Sayantani Ghosh Hazra, continue their protest at Esplanade, maintaining transparency by sharing CCTV footage and hourly updates about their health. They are surviving on water alone, but the situation is serious, as recent tests show elevated ketone levels in their urine, indicating potential life-threatening conditions.

29 civic volunteers at RG Kar College relieved of their duties

All 29 civic volunteers at the state-run R.G. Kar Medical College & Hospital were relieved of their duties, according to an announcement by Kolkata Police on Thursday. They have been replaced by 29 constables, including women officers. No alternative duties have been given to the civic volunteers at this time.

The decision was made after the rape and murder of a junior doctor at the college in August, which raised concerns about the security provided by civic volunteers. The alleged prime suspect, identified by investigators, was a civic volunteer. Concerns have been raised about using civic volunteers for security at medical colleges, hospitals, and schools in West Bengal.