IMA calls for one-day nationwide strike

New Delhi, June 16

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) called for one-day nationwide strike in solidarity with the attack on doctors in West Bengal and other parts of the country on Monday.

The doctors will withdraw services for 24 hours from 6 am on Monday to 6 am on Tuesday. The emergency services will function normally, but OPDs will remain closed. The IMA has demanded a uniform Central law to protect the doctors and healthcare staff from violence.

“Our fight is not against West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. We are fighting for our protection and safety. Incidents of violence against doctors and other hospital staff are increasing. We want a strict law against these attacks,” said Dr Anil Bansal, former president of the Delhi Medical Association. “There is a dearth of facilities in government hospitals. If a patient dies, it’s not doctor’s negligence. Why do people attack us?” said Dr Bansal. — TNS