Doctors Nationwide Strike Following Violent Death

A nationwide strike by doctors in India commenced on Saturday in response to the brutal rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor at a Kolkata medical college on August 9. The Indian Medical Association (IMA) called for a 24-hour cessation of non-emergency services, affecting hospitals across the country as over one million doctors participated. Protests emerged in various states, with healthcare professionals demanding justice for the victim and better security measures in medical institutions. The incident has reignited public outrage over the high incidence of violence against women in India, as highlighted by the 31,000 recorded rape cases in 2022. The health ministry urged doctors to resume their duties, particularly amid rising dengue and malaria cases, while investigations into the murder are ongoing, with one suspect already apprehended. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee supported the protests, advocating for a swift investigation and severe punishment for those responsible.