The Indian Medical Association (IMA) Tripura State Branch has declared a 24-hour strike starting from 6 AM on August 17 to 6 AM on August 18. During this period, all non-essential medical services in private and government establishments will be halted, while emergency services will remain operational. In a statement issued by IMA Tripura Secretary Dr. Basab Ghosh and President Dr. Sanjib Kumar Debbarma, the association expressed profound shock over the recent brutal rape and murder of a postgraduate doctor at RG Kar Medical College, Kolkata, on August 9. The incident has sparked nationwide outrage within the medical community.
The statement criticized the handling of the case by college authorities and the police, noting that initial investigations were poorly managed and stalled. Following the crime, protests and candle marches have been organized across India. On August 13, the Calcutta High Court ordered the transfer of the case to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). However, on August 15, the hospital was vandalized by a large mob, destroying several sections, including the area where the victim was found. Additionally, medical students participating in the protests were reportedly attacked.
In response, the IMA has called for a nationwide withdrawal of services by doctors from 6 AM on August 17 to 6 AM on August 18. Essential services will continue, and casualty departments will remain operational. However, routine outpatient departments (OPDs) and elective surgeries will be suspended.
