Protest Over Satara Doctor Case Comes to an End
Mumbai: Resident doctors across Maharashtra, represented by Central MARD and BMC MARD, have called off their two-day statewide strike after receiving key assurances from Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadnavis. The strike, which lasted three days and kept only emergency services operational, was launched to demand justice for the Satara doctor and stronger safety mechanisms for resident doctors.
Meeting with Chief Minister Brings Breakthrough
The breakthrough came after a late-night meeting on November 4, 2025, at Sahayadri Guest House, Mumbai. The delegation met the Chief Minister in the presence of senior officials, including Dr Ajay Chandanwale, Vice Chancellor and Director of DMER. During the discussion, the residents reiterated their concerns regarding workplace safety, accountability, and the handling of the Satara doctor case.
Government Promises High-Level SIT Investigation
The state government assured the formation of a high-level Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by a retired judge to conduct an impartial and thorough probe into the death of the woman doctor from Satara district. This commitment was one of the key demands put forth by the striking doctors.
Strike Days to Be Counted as ‘On Duty’
In a major relief to resident doctors, the government agreed that the strike days would be considered “on duty,” ensuring no academic setbacks, administrative action, or financial deductions. Compensation mechanisms will be implemented for resident doctors of both Municipal and Government Medical Colleges to prevent any monetary loss due to the protest.
MARD Expresses Gratitude for Swift Action
In a statement, Central MARD and BMC MARD thanked the Chief Minister, Medical Education Minister Shri Hasan Mushrif, and Dr Ajay Chandanwale for acknowledging the concerns of the medical fraternity. They also appreciated resident doctors, medical teachers, and support staff for maintaining discipline and prioritizing patient safety throughout the agitation.
Resident Doctors Resume Duties Immediately
With the government’s assurances and commitment to a time-bound implementation of demands, Central MARD and BMC MARD formally called off the strike. Doctors began resuming duties across the state with immediate effect.
Delegation Members Present at the Meeting
The discussion with the Chief Minister included key representatives such as Dr Sachin Patil (President, Central MARD), Dr Atharva Shinde (Spokesperson, Central MARD), Dr Ishwari Somvanshi (LR, Central MARD), Dr Rakesh Kumar Routu, Dr Chinmay Kelkar (President, BMC MARD), and Dr Ayushi Bafna (BMC MARD).
Background: Tragic Satara Doctor Case Sparked Statewide Outrage
The protest stemmed from the death of a woman doctor posted at Phaltan Sub-District Hospital in Satara district. She was found hanging in a Phaltan hotel room, leaving a suicide note written on her palm accusing a police sub-inspector of repeated rape and a software engineer of mental harassment. Both accused have since been arrested. The case, marked by allegations of workplace stress and systemic failure, triggered widespread anger among healthcare professionals.
Call for Stronger Protections for Resident Doctors
Medical Dialogues has closely reported the developments, highlighting the need for improved safety, mental health support, and accountability within the healthcare system. With the strike now called off, resident doctors hope the government will swiftly implement promised reforms to prevent such tragedies in the future.
