Doctors Strike in India After Rape and Murder of Trainee Medic at Hospital
Doctors Strike in India After Rape and Murder of Trainee Medic at Hospital
The Facts
Doctors across government hospitals in India began striking on Monday following the rape and murder of a 31-year-old female medic whose body was found in Kolkata, West Bengal last Friday.
The Federation of Resident Doctors' Association (FORDA) India announced on Sunday that the "horrific circumstances" at R.G. Kar Medical College meant striking was "necessary to ensure that our voices are heard," and that guarantees of safety and justice "are met without delay."
The Spin
The circumstances of this terrible crime once again exposes a corrupt and careless Indian state. Kolkata Police may pat themselves on the back over a quick arrest, but many questions will be asked of why a man with a local reputation for malice was permitted unquestioned access to the sleeping arrangements of a hospital employee at night. Doctors and medics must feel safe in order to carry out their profession, and the Indian government must once and for all put and end to the country's relentless wave of violent crime perpetrated against women.
Social media has become saturated with misinformation and fake news following the events that unfolded at R.G. Car Medical College. The police has assured protestors that they will do all that they can to ensure justice, and the continued spread of unsubstantiated rumour will only obstruct the state's ability to do its job properly.