Mamata Banerjee Meets Doctors Amid Ongoing Protest, Urges Resolution

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee made a surprise visit to the protest site where doctors are staging a sit-in. CM urged them to return to work. The doctors have been protesting since the tragic rape and murder of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College in Kolkata last month.

CM Mamta Banerjee said to doctors “Please give me five minutes. You can shout slogans after,” she said in Bengali. Acknowledging the doctors’ struggle, she emphasized her support for their cause and assured them that their demands would be considered. “I will study your demands and consult with top officials to ensure justice is served for the victim, Tilottama,” she said.

CM Banerjee urged them to return to work stressing that their patients and families needed them. “I assure you, no injustice will occur. All those responsible will be punished,” she said, referencing their demand for the resignation of key officials.

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This protest follows weeks of tension between the state government and doctors with key demands including the punishment of those involved in the crime, increased security for healthcare workers, and accountability for certain officials. Banerjee’s appeal, described as her “last attempt” to resolve the crisis, comes as the case continues in the Supreme Court.

The protesting doctors have expressed openness to further talks, but remain adamant about a transparent, live-streamed meeting to address their five key demands.