Why Are Doctors in Bengal Seeking Mamata Banerjee's Intervention Against Police Actions?
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Synopsis
In a compelling appeal, the Joint Platform of Doctors in West Bengal has reached out to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, demanding action against police harassment stemming from protests over the RG Kar incident. This letter highlights serious concerns about democratic rights and the safety of medical professionals standing up for justice.
Key Takeaways
- Doctors in West Bengal are seeking protection and intervention from the state government.
- The letter highlights the significance of democratic rights in the face of police actions.
- Two doctors were summoned for their involvement in protests related to a tragic incident last year.
- Public outrage continues to fuel demands for justice and accountability.
- Solidarity among medical professionals is crucial in advocating for their rights.
Kolkata, Aug 31 (NationPress) The Joint Platform of Doctors in West Bengal has addressed a letter to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, requesting her intervention concerning police actions directed at both doctors and civilians during protests linked to the RG Kar rape and murder case from last year.
This doctors' coalition stated that the police's actions were intended to intimidate those advocating for justice.
"On behalf of the Joint Platform of Doctors in West Bengal, we are writing to you (Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee) to express our deep concern and strongest protest against the ongoing and undemocratic harassment of medical professionals and ordinary citizens by the Kolkata Police. These actions represent a direct infringement of our fundamental democratic rights and are a blatant attempt to intimidate and victimise those who have stood up for justice," the letter dated August 30 read.
This action from the doctors' coalition followed the Kolkata Police summoning two doctors involved in protest activities related to the tragic rape and murder of a post-graduate trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital last year.
Doctors Manas Gumta and Subarna Goswami received summons regarding a case registered last year at Bowbazar police station.
Gumta is required to report to the Bowbazar police station on September 3, while Goswami has been summoned for September 2.
Both doctors were prominent in leading protests against the government led by Mamata Banerjee last year.
Manas Gumta, a former general secretary of the West Bengal Association of Health Service Doctors, remarked that this move reflects the vindictiveness of the state government.
The summons indicated that failure to comply would result in legal repercussions for the doctor.
The doctors' coalition firmly stated, "This targeted and systematic harassment represents a gross misuse of state power to suppress the medical community and the general populace. The medical professionals of West Bengal will not remain silent while our colleagues and fellow citizens are victimised for upholding democratic values."
The letter further urged, "We implore you (Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee) to take immediate action to halt these autocratic measures. We demand the swift withdrawal of these unjust police summons and the preservation of the dignity and rights of medical professionals and all citizens in our state."
On August 9 last year, the body of a post-graduate trainee doctor was discovered in the seminar hall of RG Kar Medical College and Hospital.
This incident shocked the nation and beyond, sparking widespread protests by doctors, the general public, and even women from households.
In pursuit of a fair investigation and justice, various organizations, including the Medical Service Centre, service doctors affiliated with the All India Democratic Students' Organisation, West Bengal Doctors' Forum, and Association of Health Service Doctors, initiated multiple protest movements.
Eventually, the West Bengal Joint Platform of Doctors also joined the advocacy efforts.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the ongoing struggle for justice and the protection of democratic rights in India. The doctors' plea underscores the importance of upholding free speech and the right to protest. This situation highlights a critical intersection of health, justice, and governance—a reminder that the voices demanding accountability must not be silenced.
NationPress
31/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the doctors' letter to Mamata Banerjee?
The letter was prompted by police actions against doctors and civilians during protests related to the RG Kar rape and murder incident, raising concerns about democratic rights.
Who are the doctors involved in the protest?
The doctors involved include Manas Gumta and Subarna Goswami, who played pivotal roles in leading the protests.
What demands were made in the letter?
The letter demands the immediate withdrawal of police summons and the upholding of the dignity and rights of medical professionals and citizens.
When did the RG Kar incident occur?
The RG Kar incident, involving the tragic death of a post-graduate trainee doctor, occurred on August 9 of last year.
What was the public reaction to the RG Kar incident?
The incident sparked widespread protests across the nation, highlighting the demand for justice and a thorough investigation.
