India's neighbouring countries condemn rape and murder of junior doctor in Kolkata

Two of India's neigbouring countries-Pakistan and Nepal-have condemned an inhumane act of rape, demanding proper investigation and punishment against the culprits over over the brutal rape and murder of a junior doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The Pakistan Medical Association has even urged the World Medical Association to intervene and ensure that justice is served.

The rape case has triggered doctor's protest in India with Indian Medical Association (IMA) announcing a 24 hour nationwide withdrawal of non emergency services from August 17.The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Saturday appealed to the doctors to end their strike while assuring to form a committee to suggest measures for ensuring the safety of healthcare professionals.

The move follows a meeting by representatives from the Federation of Resident Doctors Association (FORDA), the Indian Medical Association (IMA), and the Resident Doctors' Associations of Government Medical Colleges and Hospitals in which they put forth their demands regarding their concern over the safety and security of healthcare workers.


Acknowledging the concerns, the health ministry assured them of all possible efforts to ensure the security of healthcare professionals, the ministry said in a statement.

To address the concerns the health ministry also assured them to form a committee that will explore all possible measures to ensure the safety of healthcare professionals.

“Representatives of all stakeholders including the state governments will be invited to share their suggestions with the committee. The ministry asked the agitating doctors to resume their duties in the larger public interest and in view of the rising cases of dengue and malaria," the ministry said.

Following the heinous crime, the Pakistan Medical Association said that it was imperative that the International medical community come together to condemn such atrocities and work towards creating a "safer" environment for the healthcare professionals.

The Nepal Medical Association too issued a message of solidarity with the Indian Medical Association (IMA).