Indian Medical Association Announces Nationwide Closure of Non-Emergency Services in Protest

New Delhi: The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has declared a 24-hour nationwide halt of non-emergency medical services starting at 6 a.m. on August 17, in response to the alleged rape and murder of a trainee woman doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata. This decision follows reports of vandalism at the hospital during protests.

In a statement released late Thursday, the IMA specified that while essential services and casualty wards will remain operational, out-patient departments (OPDs) and elective surgeries will be suspended. The protest encompasses all sectors where modern medicine doctors are employed.

The IMA's statement condemned the violence and destruction witnessed at the Kolkata hospital, where medical professionals have been demonstrating since August 9. "The brutal crime and subsequent vandalism on the eve of Independence Day have compelled the Indian Medical Association to take this step. This withdrawal will be in effect from 6 a.m. on August 17 to 6 a.m. on August 18," the statement read.

The association highlighted the vulnerability of doctors, particularly women, to violence and criticized the authorities for failing to ensure their safety. "Both physical assaults and crimes are indicative of the authorities' indifference to the needs of healthcare workers," the IMA said.

The decision for the nationwide protest came after consultations with state branches of the IMA. The association also expressed concern over the recent vandalism at the Kolkata hospital, which it believes threatens the integrity of the ongoing investigation.

Earlier, the IMA criticized the authorities for their negligence, which they claim allowed the heinous crime to occur. The statement described the vandalism as an indication of anarchy and a breakdown of law and order.

According to the Kolkata Police, nearly 40 individuals, posing as protestors, caused extensive damage at the hospital, attacking police personnel with stones and damaging property. The vandals targeted the Emergency Ward, the nursing station, the medicine store, and sections of the OPD. Several CCTV cameras were also destroyed, and a police vehicle was overturned, leading to injuries among some police personnel.

The investigation into the trainee doctor's death has been transferred to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) by order of the Calcutta High Court.