Indian doctors end strike against colleague’s rape, murder

KOLKATA: Honouring an appeal by the parents of a female doctor who was raped and murdered, Kolkata junior doctors announced an end to their 17-day hunger strike they had been observing in protest against the tragic incident occurring on Aug 9 this year. 
The protesters also met with the chief minister of the opposition-led state, which has faced scrutiny over its handling of sex crimes. 
The protesting doctors called for enhanced security measures and improved conditions at government hospitals, alongside demands for justice for the victim.
The case has garnered nationwide attention since a police volunteer was arrested in connection with the crime, which sparked widespread protests in August and September after the woman's body was discovered at R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital.
Dr. Debasish Halder, a spokesman for the doctors, said that the victim’s parents expressed their concern over the deteriorating health of the fasting doctors and highlighted the negative impact of inadequate healthcare services on the community. 
Several participants in the strike suffered severe dehydration and required hospitalization.
During the meeting, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee agreed to most of the doctors’ demands. "Our movement for justice and a healthy, secure healthcare system will continue," Halder stated, adding that the doctors would closely monitor the progress of her commitments.
Doctors have voiced concerns about government hospitals across India, citing a lack of basic amenities such as restrooms for staff, security personnel, and CCTV cameras. 
While the Supreme Court has addressed the issue, junior doctors argue that its efforts have not adequately ensured justice. 
Reports indicate that the West Bengal government has been slow to establish new tribunals for such crimes and has not fulfilled safety improvement promises made in 2019.
Despite stricter laws introduced following the 2012 gang rape and murder in New Delhi, activists contend that women in India continue to face significant risks of sexual violence.