Kolkata

Protests by doctors in West Bengal are escalating in response to the tragic rape and murder of a junior doctor at R.G. Kar Medical College & Hospital. The West Bengal Junior Doctors’ Front (WBJDF), which spearheaded the protests, has accused the newly formed West Bengal Junior Doctors’ Association (WBJDA) of creating a threatening environment in medical institutions, alleging connections to powerful figures, including the former principal of R.G. Kar, Sandip Ghosh.

In turn, the WBJDA, reportedly backed by the ruling Trinamool Congress, has accused the WBJDF of exploiting the tragedy for personal benefit, including questionable fundraising efforts during the protests. The WBJDA has called for an investigation into these fundraising activities, heightening the tensions between the two groups.

Despite these accusations, the WBJDF remains steadfast, claiming the WBJDA is trying to diminish their grassroots support. A representative stated that although they paused their hunger strike to honor the victim’s family, their demands for justice remain firm. The WBJDF plans to extend their protests to rural areas and is organizing a march to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) office in Salt Lake, demanding a thorough investigation into the case. This protest is set to take place just before the Kali Puja festival, further intensifying the urgency of their cause.