More than 200 resident doctors, interns, and students of medical and nursing colleges from Amrita Hospital, Faridabad, held a candle march to protest against the barbaric rape and murder of a PG medical student at RG Kar Medical College in Kolkata and highlight the need for better safety of women healthcare professionals working in hospitals across the country. The march commenced from Amrita Hospital and terminated at Badkal Mod, covering distance of 5km.

Said Dr. Sanjeev Singh, Medical Director, Amrita Hospital, Faridabad: “We all are extremely distributed with the horrifying incident in Kolkata involving a female PG medical student. Doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals dedicate their entire lives to saving the lives of others. The safety, dignity and respect of all healthcare professionals must be ensured by the society and the Government at all costs. Women doctors and nurses are especially vulnerable. This candle march is a peaceful yet powerful way to remind the community and authorities of the critical need to protect those who serve on the frontlines of healthcare.”

He added: “The recent rise in incidents across the country compromising the safety of female medical personnel has prompted the healthcare community nationwide to unite and express solidarity for the cause. We at Amrita Hospital have always championed the cause of the safety of healthcare professionals. It is heartening to see the collective effort of our residents, interns, and students in organizing this event, and we hope it will lead to constructive dialogue and actionable outcomes.”

On August 17 morning too, a peaceful march was held by Heads of Departments (HoDs) and senior consultants of Amrita Hospital within its sprawling campus to highlight the issue of safety of women in the healthcare profession and express anguish at the Kolkata incident.