Pune: In response to the recent sexual assault and murder of a second-year medical student at R.G. Kar Medical College in Kolkata, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) has announced a nationwide strike. The strike will commence at 6 AM on August 17 and continue until 6 AM on August 18.

During this period, outpatient departments (OPDs) at private hospitals across the state will be closed, and non-emergency medical services will be suspended. Emergency services will remain operational.

Dr. Rajan Sancheti, President of IMA Pune, confirmed that the Pune branch supports the strike. Similarly, Dr. Haribhau Sonawane, President of the General Practitioners Association, endorsed the strike and indicated that doctors will be wearing black ribbons while continuing to provide essential services.

Dr. R.V. Ashokan, National President of the IMA, stated that the strike is in protest of the inadequate handling of the assault and murder case by local law enforcement in Kolkata.

The Kolkata High Court has transferred the investigation to the CBI, following dissatisfaction with the initial inquiry. Additionally, on Independence Day, August 15, there was vandalism at the hospital where the incident occurred.

The IMA has criticized the lack of adequate protection for doctors, particularly female doctors, who are at higher risk of such violence. This strike aims to draw attention to these issues and protest against the rising violence in the medical community.