The hunger strike from October 5 followed nearly 50 days of cease work’ in two phases.Their agitation began after an on-duty postgraduate trainee was allegedly raped and murdered inside state-run RG Kar Medical College and Hospital on August 9.While one person was arrested by the Kolkata Police the next day, the CBI is now investigating the case on a Calcutta High Court order.On Friday, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) urged West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to intervene before the situation escalates.Doctors of private hospitals called for a 48-hour partial cease work from October 14 in medical establishments across West Bengal, in solidarity with the agitating junior medics observing a fast-unto-death.The doctors, under the banner of Healthcare Professionals of Private Hospitals, however, said emergency services in all medical facilities will remain operational.The Joint Platform of Doctors, West Bengal, has also called for a protest carnival’ on October 15 at Esplanade.The date coincides with the West Bengal government-organised carnival on Red Road, situated nearby, where prominent Durga Puja idols and decorations are showcased through processions and cultural events.The ongoing agitation also prompted the Federation of All India Medical Associations (FAIMA) to warn of a nationwide “complete shutdown of medical services” if any harm is caused to the protesting junior doctors.
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