Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee offers to resign amidst doctors' strike; appeals for dialogue
Kolkata doctor murder: In an emotionally charged statement, Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her willingness to step down "in the interest of the people" as the impasse with protesting junior doctors continued over doctor's sexual assault and murder. Speaking at a press conference after a failed meeting with the doctors at the state secretariat, Mamata Banerjee said "she is not attached to her position and prioritises the welfare of the people".
Despite the government’s efforts to negotiate, including accepting several demands from the doctors, the meeting hit a roadblock when the demand for live transmission of the discussions was denied. Although the proceedings were being recorded, the refusal of live broadcast became the key sticking point. Mamata Banerjee said the government had agreed to other demands, such as increasing the delegation size from 15 to 32 members.
The West Bengal Chief Minister's disappointment was evident as she addressed the public, stating, "I have tried my best to speak to the doctors. I apologise to the people of Bengal for the delay in resolving this issue." She added that despite waiting for two hours for the delegation to enter the meeting, the doctors refused to participate due to external pressure.
She claimed that some individuals outside the delegation were influencing the doctors not to negotiate. "I know many were interested in talks, but a few were giving instructions from outside. We have evidence of this," she said, referring to press recordings.
The ongoing protest stems from the sexual assault and murder of a young doctor at RG Kar Medical College on August 9, which has sparked outrage among the medical community. The doctors accuse the state government of failing to take appropriate action and protecting former Principal Sandip Ghosh, who is now under arrest by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in a separate corruption case.
The doctors are demanding the resignation of key officials, including Kolkata Police Commissioner Vineet Goyal and two senior health department officials. They remain adamant that no resolution will be reached until their demands are met. The case has drawn national attention and is currently being investigated by the CBI.
Mamata Banerjee reassured the doctors that no punitive action would be taken against them and reiterated the government's openness to dialogue. She urged them to return to work, citing the suffering of patients, including those with critical conditions such as heart and kidney diseases, as well as pregnant women in need of urgent care.
Unlike other states, the Bengal government has refrained from invoking the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA), which could compel doctors to return to work. "I am not a supporter of Emergency," Banerjee said, referencing actions taken by other states during similar crises.
- With inputs from agencies
