RG Kar Rape-Murder Case: Bengal govt says it may act if junior medics don't stop protest

Junior doctors, who have been agitating over the RG Kar Medical College rape and murder case, have agreed to hold a meeting with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee provided their list of five demands, including a live telecast of the meeting where 30 representatives from various colleges are allowed to participate, is met. However, late in the evening, the state administration stated that "there was politics behind the doctors' demand" and that only 12-15 representatives could attend the meeting. They did not seem to be in favour of a live telecast of the meeting. In a veiled threat, they stated that action may be taken against the agitating doctors if they did not abide by the Supreme Court order and resume work at the earliest.

State Health Minister (MoS) Chandrima Bhattacharya said "there seems to be politics behind the doctors sending their email at 3.50 am to the CMO and putting conditions for the meeting".

Justifying the government stand, Bhattacharya said, "The death is very unfortunate. There is some politics behind the doctors' latest demands. We want to hold discussions in an open minded manner. The poor should not be deprived of the services." In a veiled threat that action may be taken, the minister said, "You will see, if any steps will be taken."


Manoj Pant cited the Supreme Court deadline given to the doctors. "The Supreme Court order has not been abided. We have received a mail that they want 30 delegates and a live telecast. They have five demands. They want the chief minister to be present. We cannot discuss based on conditions. We wanted to hear their concerns and have an open discussion," he said

"They should abide by the apex court's direction and our appeal. We seek a proactive reaction from them. We are disheartened with their mail. All law-abiding citizens should listen to the Supreme Court," Pant said.

"We are committed to provide a safe and secure environment in the health sector. We have to discuss with an open mind," DGP Rajiv Kumar said.

But Aniket Mahato, the doctors' representative said: "We also wanted to join work by 5 pm. But a democratic government must respect democracy. We are ready to discuss with open minds".

The doctors, whose protest in front of Swasthya Bhawan, crossed 26 hours, have urged the CM to suspend Sandip Ghosh and disciplinary action to be taken against him. They have also demanded the removal of Calcutta Police Commissioner Vineet Goyal and Deputy Commissioner of Police (North), enhancement of security measures and an end to the threat culture at medical colleges. Their five-point demand includes justice at the earliest for the victim.

"We want the CBI and SC to expedite the process and punish the culprits."