It is with great anger that the All India Residents and Junior Doctors Joint Action Forum (AIJAF) spoke out against the recent actions taken by the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) management against the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) in Chandigarh. This condemnation comes in response to issuing a show-cause notice to the ARD following their call for a cease-work protest as part of a nationwide movement demanding justice for RGKAR incidence.
FAIMA also supports the cause of AIJAF.
Background of the Protests
In support of the national call for justice in the RGKAR case, the ARD at PGIMER planned a peaceful protest and a relay hunger strike for October 15, 2024. Even though there were protests, emergency medical services were still fully operating, making sure that patients did not lose any care. The protests were aimed at highlighting the need for justice and broader healthcare reforms across the country.
AIJAF’s Stance
AIJAF has labeled the PGIMER administration’s decision to issue a show-cause notice as “utterly undemocratic and unjust,” viewing it as an attempt to silence the voices of healthcare professionals and doctors.
The forum emphasized that the right to participate in peaceful protests is a fundamental democratic right in independent India, especially for healthcare workers who are advocating for justice and systemic reforms.
In independent India, demanding safety for doctors is justified. Hospital administrations should support their security and must take proper measures.
The Call for Action
AIJAF has called upon the PGIMER administration to immediately withdraw the show-cause notice, respecting the democratic rights of the resident doctors and healthcare professionals. The group stands with the President of ARD, PGIMER, and all the doctors who are protesting. They say again that their actions have only made the case for justice and the needed changes in the healthcare system stronger.
Broader Implications
This incident at PGIMER is not an isolated case but part of a larger movement demanding justice and safety for healthcare professionals across India. The protests have brought to light the urgent need for reforms to ensure the safety and rights of medical practitioners, who often face significant risks in their line of duty.
Points from the Show-Cause Notice
The show-cause notice issued by PGIMER’s administration highlighted several key points:
- The strike by outsourced workers, including hospital attendants and sanitation staff, had already
impacted patient care services. - Despite being persuaded by the Director and other senior officials not to proceed with the strike, the
ARD went ahead, exacerbating the situation. - The notice accused the ARD of inciting other resident doctors, including those from AIIMS New Delhi, to join the protest.
In conclusion, AIJAF’s condemnation of the PGIMER administration’s actions underscores the critical importance of upholding democratic rights and supporting healthcare professionals in their fight for justice and systemic change. The forum’s unwavering support for the ARD at PGIMER highlights the solidarity within the medical community and the ongoing struggle for a safer and more just healthcare
The Medical Bulletin
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