The Association of Medical Consultants (AMC) strongly condemns the heinous crime committed against a young postgraduate resident doctor in R G Kar Medical College, Kolkata. The tragic rape and murder of this young doctor, who was dedicated to serving the public, is not only a devastating blow to the medical fraternity but also a grave reflection of the state of security provided to healthcare professionals in our country.

In light of this brutal incident and the subsequent failure of authorities to ensure a swift and fair investigation, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) has called for a nationwide withdrawal of services by modern medicine doctors as a form of protest. AMC stands in full solidarity with IMA and supports this call for action. We believe that the safety and dignity of doctors must be always upheld. To express our deep anguish and to demand justice for the victim, AMC hereby declares the withdrawal of services by our members from 6 AM on Saturday, 17th August 2024, to 6 AM on Sunday, 18th August 2024, for 24 hours. During this period, all essential services will be maintained, and casualty wards will remain operational.

However, routine outpatient departments (OPDs) will not function, and elective surgeries will be postponed. This symbolic act is necessary to draw attention to the dire need for improved safety measures for healthcare professionals within medical institutions. We urge the authorities to take immediate and decisive action to bring the perpetrators of this horrific crime to justice and to implement stringent measures to prevent such incidents in the future. The AMC calls upon all its members to participate in this strike and stand united with our colleagues across the nation in this fight for justice.

This strike is not just about the tragic loss of a colleague; it is about the safety and respect that all healthcare workers deserve. We hope that the nation will stand with us as we demand justice and safety for every doctor, nurse, and healthcare worker in India.