Mamata government rejects doctors' preconditions for talks; what are they
The West Bengal government, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, has dismissed the demands of junior doctors for her presence and a live broadcast as preconditions for talks. The doctors also demanded "at least 30 representatives as this movement is spread across various medical colleges and hospitals." They have been staging protests outside Swasthya Bhawan, demanding action against those involved in the August 9 rape and murder of a fellow doctor and an alleged cover-up.
Government suggests political influence behind protests
Chandrima Bhattacharya, Minister of State for Health, suggested that "political forces" might be influencing the protests. This statement was swiftly rebutted by the medics who dismissed these claims as baseless. Bhattacharya urged the doctors to resume work in line with a Supreme Court directive but has not clarified whether any punitive measures will be imposed for non-compliance with this order.
TMC leaders label protesting doctors as 'anti-nationals'
Tensions have escalated with Trinamool Congress (TMC) leaders and MLAs labeling the protesting junior doctors as "anti-nationals" and hinting at possible counter-protests against them. TMC MLA Humayun Kabir announced plans for counter-protests due to the impact of the doctors' agitation on public health, while TMC leader Chandan Mukhopadhyay called them "anti-national" for defying a Supreme Court order.
Supreme Court directed the doctors to return to duty
On Monday, the Supreme Court directed the doctors to return to duty by 5:00pm on Tuesday and asked the state government to not take any action against them. But the doctors continued their protests on Tuesday, saying they would not rejoin work till their demands were met. They put up sheds, arranged fans, and provided food and water, indicating that they have no plans to back off till their demands are met.
Government refuses to accept preconditions for talks
They had also rejected Banerjee's invitation for talks after an email sent by the state's Health Secretary N S Nigam said, "Your small delegation (maximum 10 persons) may visit 'Nabanna' now to meet government representatives." However, on Wednesday, the doctor said they were willing to meet with Banerjee. In addition to seeking justice for the victim, the doctors are calling for increased security measures for female health professionals and the suspension of numerous high-ranking officials, including the Kolkata police commissioner.
