Midnapore : Junior doctors at Midnapore Medical College and Hospital (MMCH) called off their ‘cease work’ protest on Friday evening. The protest began after the suspension of 12 doctors, including six junior doctors, following allegations of negligence related to the death of a woman after childbirth and the critical condition of four others due to allegedly expired intravenous fluid.
Resumption of Services
Key departments such as emergency, ICU, obstetrics, and paediatrics have resumed normal operations. A representative of the Junior Doctors Forum stated, “We decided to protest in solidarity with our suspended colleagues. However, as services are being restored, we are returning to work.”
Investigation and Government Action
The state government suspended the doctors after a CID report and findings from a 13-member expert committee confirmed negligence. The suspension also extended to senior medical staff, including the Medical Superintendent, Vice Principal, and department heads. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee emphasized the necessity of the suspensions, stating, “The action ensures accountability.” She further announced that an FIR would be lodged against the accused doctors.
Allegations of Systemic Issues
The protesting junior doctors alleged that the state administration was using the suspensions to shift focus from broader systemic issues, such as corruption and inefficiencies in the health sector. “This is an attempt to deflect attention from the larger issues within the health system,” said a junior doctor.
Relief for Patients
The normalization of services brought relief to patients and their families, who had faced disruptions in obstetrics, paediatrics, and other critical departments during the protest.
New Leadership at MMCH
The newly appointed Medical Superintendent, Indranil Sen, assured the public and the protesting doctors that the administration would address their concerns and restore confidence in the institution.
Background of Protests
The MMCH protest follows another prolonged agitation by junior doctors in West Bengal, including a 50-day strike in two phases and a hunger strike in response to the rape and murder of a colleague at R G Kar Hospital. These incidents highlight the mounting tensions and challenges faced by healthcare professionals in the state.
