Category Archives: States

Crime, West Bengal

Workplace harassment: Women’s body writes to CM

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MP, 21 Sept 2024, KOLKATA: In the wake of the recent rape and murder of a young doctor at RG Kar Hospital, the Women’s Forum for Screen Workers (WFSW+), a collective of women, sexual and gender minorities working as actors, technicians and crew members in the Bengali entertainment industry, has requested Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for the formation of an independent committee to investigate workplace harassment and gender-based violence. 

In an official letter to the CM on Saturday, WFSW+ has sought the CM’s help to establish this committee to ensure safety and dignity for women in the workplace. 
The forum includes the likes of Aparna Sen, Bidipta Chakraborty, Sudipta Chakraborty, Paoli Dam, Sohini Sarkar, Swastika Mukherjee, Daminee Benny Basu, Rituparna Sengupta, Sohini Sengupta, and others. 
Outlining a charter of demands, the forum highlighted the gaps in workplace safety, the lack of functional grievance redressal system and the exploitation that many women workers face silently in the Bengali entertainment industry. 
The forum mentioned how the government is already planning to form such a committee and they fully support the endeavour. In fact, actress Ritabhari Chakraborty had met the chief minister at Nabanna and the CM promised the formation of such a committee a few weeks ago. 
The women’s forum proposed that the committee should investigate sexual abuse and harassment, review compliance with the PoSH Act 2013 in all production companies, studios and other screen entertainment industry workplace. 
The forum also wants the minors working in the industry are protected as per the POSCO Act, 2012. 
“We insist that this independent committee be composed of genders sensitize legal experts, industry representatives, human rights activists, mental health experts, and government officials who can work together to address these pressing issues and create a safer more equitable work environment,” the letter mentioned. 
https://www.millenniumpost.in/bengal/pg-admission-result-delay-hurdle-for-students-of-calcutta-university-580484?infinitescroll=1
Economy, Education, National, West Bengal

Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s ‘Kanyashree’ and ‘Rupashree’ Projects Earn Special Praise from UNICEF

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Baby Chakraborty | KalimNews | September 21, 2024 | Kolkata : The visionary projects of

Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, ‘Kanyashree’ and ‘Rupashree’, have brought significant recognition to the state, earning special praise from UNICEF. At the recently concluded ‘Impact East, 2024 Conclave’, organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), UNICEF’s Chief of Field Office, Manjur Hossain, lauded the far-reaching impact of these social schemes in driving positive change, particularly in the areas of women’s empowerment and social development. The event saw the participation of eminent industry leaders, including Saurabh Roy from Tata Steel, Debashis Dutta from BG Samaddar and Sons, and Prashant Kumar Hota of Jindal Steel, as well as representatives from more than fifty voluntary organizations.


Hon’ble Minister Sobhandev Chattopadhyay expressed his pride in Bengal’s achievements, stating that “The Kanyashree and Rupashree projects have added a new feather to Bengal’s crown, thanks to the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.”

The Kanyashree project, launched in 2013, was specifically designed to empower girls by encouraging them to pursue higher education and prevent child marriage. It provides financial assistance to girls from underprivileged backgrounds, aiming to delay marriages and ensure they complete their education. This initiative has garnered global acclaim, including the prestigious UNESCO Award, and is considered a model for other states and countries to emulate.

Speaking at the event, Ariane de Wagat, a UNICEF representative, remarked, “The Kanyashree project is playing a significant role in empowering women. All the work UNICEF is doing on child nutrition and growth is seeing more success because of initiatives like Kanyashree, which encourage girls to stay in school and pursue higher education. It’s also a crucial factor in preventing child marriages.” She emphasized the global importance of such programs, stating that there is a need to replicate projects like Kanyashree not just in India, but across the world.

The Rupashree project, another key initiative, provides financial support for the marriage of girls from economically disadvantaged families, ensuring that they are not forced into early marriages due to financial hardship. Together, these programs have become cornerstones of Bengal’s social welfare framework, creating a safer and more supportive environment for young women.

The impact of the Kanyashree and Rupashree schemes is clear. Official data shows a marked decline in the incidence of child marriage across Bengal, proving the effectiveness of these initiatives in addressing deep-rooted social issues. The projects have helped transform the lives of millions of girls, making Bengal a leading example of women’s empowerment in India.

UNICEF’s recognition of these projects at the conclave, along with prior acknowledgment at the Maiden’s Day event a few days ago, further solidifies the global importance of Bengal’s efforts to empower women and girls. The conclave serves as a reminder of the critical role that government initiatives can play in shaping a more inclusive and equitable society.

As Bengal continues to make strides in social development, the Kanyashree and Rupashree projects stand as a testament to the power of visionary leadership and the potential of targeted welfare programs to bring about meaningful change.
Crime, Regional, West Bengal

Traffic ASI Arrested in Rape Case Following Two-Month Investigation

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Baby Chakraborty | KalimNews | September 21, 2024 | Siliguri: In a significant development, Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) Amar Bir of the Bagdogra Traffic Guard was arrested on charges of rape, nearly two months after a woman lodged a formal complaint with the Matigara Police Station. The victim alleged that ASI Bir had been sexually assaulting her over an extended period, luring her with false promises of marriage and, in some instances, using his position to intimidate her.


According to sources, the accused ASI threatened the woman with police action if she exposed the abuse. Despite this, the victim courageously filed a written complaint with Matigara Police Station two months ago, detailing her traumatic experiences. After an extended investigation, the police arrested ASI Bir yesterday, marking a turning point in the case.

The accused was presented before the Siliguri Sub-Divisional Court earlier today. Authorities from Matigara Police Station have requested custody of the ASI to proceed with a thorough investigation into the allegations. The remand period is expected to be crucial for gathering additional evidence and verifying the full extent of the crimes committed. 

The arrest has sent shockwaves through the local community, as ASI Amar Bir had been a traffic officer in the Bagdogra Traffic Guard for several years. Local residents and advocacy groups are closely following the case, hoping for swift justice and accountability. Fearing his arrest, he first applied for anticipatory bail in the sessions court, which rejected his appeal, and then pursued the appeal in the high court, which also rejected it.

This incident has once again highlighted the pressing issue of power dynamics and abuse within law enforcement, raising concerns about the need for greater transparency and stronger checks on those in positions of authority. As the investigation unfolds, all eyes are on the judicial process to ensure that the victim receives the justice she deserves.
Health, West Bengal

Abhaya Clinic Steps Up for Medical Services in Flood-Affected Areas

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Baby Chakraborty | KalimNews | September 21, 2024 | West Medinipur: In a heartwarming display of dedication and humanity, a team of junior doctors from Arjikar Medical College, Kolkata, under the banner of ‘Abhaya Clinic,’ has come forward to provide medical relief to the flood-ravaged village of Kanakhali in Keshpur, West Medinipur. The village has been submerged under water for days, with many residents trapped inside their homes and struggling to cope with worsening health conditions.

The junior doctors, who have been actively agitating in the RG Kar case, took time off from their protest to stand in solidarity with the flood victims. Braving the hazardous conditions, they treated patients while standing knee-deep in water, ensuring that no one was left unattended despite the challenging circumstances. In addition to addressing immediate physical ailments, the doctors offered vital health advice regarding the potential risks of post-flood diseases, aiming to prevent the spread of waterborne and other infectious illnesses.

The initiative didn’t stop at medical care. The doctors went door-to-door, distributing essential medicines, dry food, and other relief materials to those stranded by the floods. Their compassionate efforts have made a profound impact on the local population, with many residents praising the team for their tireless service in a time of need.


One local resident expressed deep gratitude, saying, “Since the flood, we’ve been facing a rise in diseases and physical ailments. The medical team from RG Kar didn’t just provide treatment but also brought much-needed relief. The humanity and dedication they’ve shown in such a critical situation is invaluable to us.”

The junior doctors, led by Balai Bahulya, have once again proven their unwavering commitment to their duties, stepping up to serve even amidst a crisis. Their actions have provided a glimmer of hope and solidarity to a community in desperate need, further cementing their role as essential caregivers in the region.
Crime, West Bengal

CBI May Take Sandeep Ghosh Abroad for Investigation Purposes

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Baby Chakraborty | KalimNews | September 21, 2024 | Kolkata: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has intensified its probe into the RG Kar case, focusing on Sandeep Ghosh, a key figure under arrest. Although Ghosh has already undergone a polygraph (lie detector) test, officials remain skeptical, citing several unresolved doubts regarding his involvement. In light of these concerns, the CBI is planning to take Ghosh abroad as part of their ongoing investigation.
Recent developments have seen the CBI move forward with a petition to conduct a narco-analysis test on Ghosh. Sources indicate that this application was submitted to the court earlier today. After reviewing the request, the court granted its approval, clearing the way for further investigation. The narco test is scheduled for September 23, 2024, and will be a pivotal moment in the case.
While initial reports suggested that Ghosh might be transferred to Gujarat for the narco test, the CBI is now exploring the possibility of taking him to a foreign country as part of their broader investigative efforts. This move, experts suggest, could be aimed at utilizing advanced forensic techniques or gathering additional international intelligence related to the case.
The outcome of the narco test, and any subsequent international investigation, is anticipated to provide critical insights into the RG Kar case. The entire nation will be closely watching whether these efforts reveal the truth behind the allegations against Ghosh.

West Bengal

Communication Breakdown Leaves Khanakul Residents in Distress Amid Flooding

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, September 20, 2024, Hooghly :  The residents of Khanakul are facing a critical situation as heavy flooding has submerged the area, cutting off communication links. Since yesterday, the phone network has been entirely disrupted, leaving many expatriate Bengalis—who are working in other states—unable to connect with their families back home, heightening their anxiety for their loved ones.


With the region completely inundated, local news reporters are also struggling to send updates to their channels due to the lack of mobile network and internet service. The inability to communicate not only complicates personal situations but also hampers efforts to alert authorities in case of emergencies.

Residents are expressing their concerns about how they will inform local administration of any dangers, given the current breakdown in communication. The flooding has left many feeling isolated and vulnerable, as they rely on phone networks to reach out for help.

In response to this dire situation, the community is urgently calling for the swift restoration of mobile network services from the SIM card providers. The demand is clear: residents need reliable communication to ensure their safety and connect with their families during this challenging time.

As the situation evolves, the community remains hopeful that service providers will take immediate action to restore connectivity, allowing them to stay informed and seek assistance as needed.
National, West Bengal

Kolkata-Amritsar Express Goes Off Course for 30 Minutes; Passengers Narrowly Avoid Disaster

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, September 20, 2024, Kolkata :  In a troubling incident highlighting ongoing issues within railway operations, the Kolkata-Amritsar-bound Durgiana Express (12537) mistakenly traveled in the wrong direction for nearly half an hour. The error was only rectified after the train reached Nakodar station, causing significant alarm among passengers.


The train departed from Kolkata on Tuesday afternoon but took an incorrect route after leaving Jalandhar en route to Amritsar. It was at Nakodar station that the driver became aware of the mistake and halted the train, leading to an uproar among the disgruntled passengers. Many voiced their frustrations over the incident, which could have resulted in a serious accident given the high speed at which the train was traveling.

Following the incident, railway authorities dispatched a separate engine to redirect the train toward Amritsar. Fortunately, despite the gravity of the situation, no major accidents occurred, and all passengers were unharmed.

This incident raises critical questions about the railway system’s operational protocols, as it appears that multiple layers of oversight—including station masters, control room personnel, and signal staff—failed to detect such a significant error in routing.

As investigations are likely to follow, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for improved safety measures and oversight within the railway system to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Crime, Politics, West Bengal

CBI Pursues New Leads in RG Kar Scandal Amid Junior Doctors’ Return to Work

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, September 20, 2024, Kolkata : The RG Kar scandal continues to cast a shadow over Kolkata, as the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) seeks to unravel the complexities surrounding the case. Investigators are now requesting a polygraph test for Abhijit Mondal, the Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Tala police station, and a narco test for Sandeep Ghosh, the former director of RG Kar. They have submitted a formal application to the court, but legal approval is still pending.


Recent interrogations of Ghosh have revealed several discrepancies, prompting the CBI to consider taking him to Gujarat for a narcotics test. Ghosh has already undergone a polygraph examination but has reportedly declined to participate in the drug test, leading the CBI to escalate the matter to the court.

As part of its investigation, the CBI has previously conducted polygraph tests on nine individuals connected to the case, including Ghosh. Now, they aim to extend this scrutiny to Mondal, having filed a new application following their court appearance. The investigators are currently awaiting confirmation on whether they have the legal authority to proceed.

The Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate (ACJM) Court of Sealdah has already granted permission for the polygraph tests of the nine other individuals involved, including the main accused, Sanjay Roy, who has also undergone testing.

As the investigation unfolds, the atmosphere remains tense, with the CBI determined to clear the fog surrounding the RG Kar scandal. Meanwhile, as junior doctors announce their return to work starting next Saturday, the healthcare community is also watching closely for developments in both the medical and legal arenas.
Politics, West Bengal

Junior Doctors Plan Partial Return to Work Amid Ongoing Protests

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, September 20, 2024, Calcutta : Junior doctors in West Bengal have announced their decision to partially resume work starting next Saturday, following a press conference held by the West Bengal Junior Doctors Front on Thursday night. However, they clarified that not all services would be reinstated immediately.


As part of their phased return, junior doctors will initially focus on providing emergency services while maintaining their ongoing protests. The group has decided to remove their sit-in demonstration in front of the Health Building, effective Friday. A procession is scheduled for the same day, which will march from Health Bhavan to the CBI office at the CGO complex at 3 PM. After this event, the junior doctors will return to their respective medical colleges and hospitals.


Despite this partial resumption of services, the junior doctors have issued a stern warning to the state government. They emphasize that if their demands regarding workplace safety and the culture of threats are not addressed, they will halt all work entirely. The doctors have set a deadline of seven days for the government to respond to their concerns. “Our flexible attitude should not be perceived as weakness,” they cautioned.

Debashis Halder, a prominent figure in the junior doctors’ movement, reiterated that the return to work would focus solely on emergency services, as the nature of these services varies across different medical departments and colleges. The doctors are adamant about their commitment to improving working conditions and ensuring their safety within the healthcare system.

As tensions remain high, the coming week will be crucial in determining the future of this situation and the extent of services that junior doctors will be able to provide moving forward.
Regional, West Bengal

Jalpaiguri Durga Puja Committee Honors Picasso’s “Guernica” with Unique Tribute

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, September 20, 2024, Jalpaiguri : In a powerful artistic statement reflecting the current global unrest, the New Para Adi Durga Puja Committee in Jalpaiguri is drawing inspiration from Pablo Picasso’s iconic mural, Guernica. This year, the committee has chosen to showcase a unique representation of the mural in the form of a decagon, highlighting the stark parallels between the turmoil of the Spanish Civil War and today’s world.


Guernica, painted in response to the bombing of the Basque town during the Spanish Civil War in April 1937, is renowned for its haunting imagery, including a woman holding a dead child and a bull symbolizing brutality and chaos. The monochromatic work captures the devastation and suffering caused by conflict, resonating deeply with contemporary issues of violence and despair.


In light of these themes, the committee’s artistic endeavor aims to provoke thought and reflection during the upcoming Durga Puja celebrations. Biswajit Ghosh, a sculptor from North Bengal, explained that the idol of Goddess Durga is being crafted in a studio using clay coated on wood and plywood. “We are merging Picasso’s purist ideals with traditional Indian art to comment on the state of the world,” Ghosh stated.

This initiative not only honors a historical artwork but also serves as a poignant reminder of the cycles of violence that persist in society. The committee hopes that this creative fusion will inspire dialogue among festival-goers and encourage a deeper understanding of the themes represented.

As the festival approaches, the New Para Adi Durga Puja Committee’s tribute to Guernica stands as a testament to the power of art in addressing social issues and fostering community reflection during a time of celebration.
Crime, Politics, West Bengal

Anubrata Mondal Granted Bail: A Return Home Before Puja

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, September 20, 2024, Birbhum : In a significant development, Anubrata Mondal, known as the King of Birbhum, has been granted bail in a case involving the Enforcement Directorate (ED). The Rouse Avenue Court in Delhi approved his release after a prolonged period of detention.

Mondal had previously secured bail in a separate case with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) from the Supreme Court, but he remained in custody due to the ED’s ongoing investigation. His release comes just in time for the upcoming Puja festivities, marking a notable turn of events for his supporters.

Mondal was arrested on September 11, 2022, following a series of inquiries by both the ED and CBI. His daughter, Sukanya Mandal, who was also implicated in the case, had been held in Tihar Jail until she was granted bail just days ago.

While Anubrata Mondal is now free, the court has imposed several conditions on his bail. He is required to inform the court in advance of any changes to his residential address in the state. Additionally, he must provide his mobile phone number to the authorities.

The decision has sparked reactions across the political spectrum, with supporters celebrating his return, while critics remain wary of the ongoing legal proceedings. As Mondal prepares to return home, the community awaits to see how this development will unfold during the festive season.

Crime, Politics, West Bengal

Junior Doctors Called to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s Kalighat Residence Again

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, September 16, 2024, Kolkata: Junior doctors have been summoned for another meeting with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee at her Kalighat residence on Monday afternoon. The meeting is scheduled for 5 p.m.


On Monday morning, the junior doctors received an email from Chief Secretary Manoj Pant informing them of the meeting. The email, sent at 11:48 a.m., described this as the government’s fifth and final attempt to address the ongoing issues.

The call for the meeting follows ongoing protests by the junior doctors. After consulting among themselves, the doctors have decided to attend. Representatives who had previously met with officials at Kalighat on Saturday have been asked to return for this additional discussion.

The meeting aims to resolve the ongoing tensions and address the concerns raised by the junior doctors.
Crime, West Bengal

Top Kolkata Police Officials Visit Home of Former Tala Police Station OC

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, September 16, 2024, Kolkata: On Monday, senior Kolkata Police officials unexpectedly visited the residence of Abhijit Mondal, the former Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Tala Police Station, who has been implicated in the RG Kar Hospital case. The visit was intended to show support for Mondal’s family and to discuss the ongoing situation.


The officials, including Kolkata Police Additional Commissioner V. Solomon Nisha Kumar, Deputy Commissioner of Police (East Division) Arish Bilal, and Deputy Commissioner (SSD) Vidisha Kalitha, arrived at Mondal’s home in Devyani Enclave, Surveypark. They spoke with Mondal’s wife, Sangeeta Mandal, and other family members.

Sangeeta Mandal reported that the CBI had contacted her about her husband’s arrest but had left her waiting for nearly three hours before providing the arrest memo.

The Kolkata Police officials conveyed their commitment to support Mondal’s family and assured them of their cooperation in all circumstances. They also emphasized that Mondal, who responded quickly to the incident at RG Kar Hospital, should not be blamed for the situation. The police maintained that the incident is a sensitive case, and the actions taken were in response to requests from RG Kar authorities and doctors.

The visit underscores the ongoing tensions and complexities surrounding the RG Kar case and the implications for those involved.
Crime, West Bengal

CBI Summons Four Calcutta Police Officers, Including Two Inspectors

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, September 16, 2024, Kolkata: The CBI has summoned four officers from the Calcutta Police, including two inspectors, in connection with the investigation of a high-profile case at RG Kar Hospital. 
This move follows initial allegations of negligence and mishandling of the investigation by local police.

The CBI’s action suggests that there may be a larger conspiracy involved. 

The officers, including two sub-inspectors, are believed to be linked to the case, which has raised speculation that the investigation could reveal new dimensions to the situation. 
The case centers on the alleged rape and murder of a young student-doctor at RG Kar Hospital, which occurred on August 9. Allegations have surfaced that evidence was tampered with following the incident. 
The post-mortem report and the hasty cremation of the victim’s body have intensified scrutiny.

The situation at RG Kar Hospital remains tense, with ongoing protests, a strike by junior doctors, and continued disruptions at the hospital. 

The CBI’s intervention underscores growing concerns about the handling of the case and the possibility of uncovering a broader conspiracy.

Health, West Bengal

Avaya Clinic by Junior Doctors of Sagar Dutta Medical College and Hospital

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, 16 September 2024, Kolkata – Despite heavy rain, a protest is being held today, Sunday, outside the Avaya Clinic, run by junior doctors of Sagar Dutta Medical College and Hospital. The protestors are demanding swift justice for the rape and murder of Tilottama, calling for the immediate identification and strictest punishment of the culprits involved.

While the protest continues, the Avaya Clinic remains operational, providing essential medical care to patients. Doctors from various departments, including pediatrics, ophthalmology, and internal medicine, are attending to patients at the clinic. In addition to consultations, free medicines are being distributed to those in need.

The clinic, which is managed by junior doctors, is offering comprehensive care despite the challenging weather conditions. Services range from general medical check-ups to specialized treatments, such as eye care and pediatric care. The junior doctors are working tirelessly to ensure that no patient is left untreated, even under difficult circumstances.

The family members of the patients have expressed their gratitude for the servi

Crime, West Bengal

CBI Uncovers Mistakes in Kolkata Police’s Case File: Investigation Continues

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, September 15, 2024, Kolkata: As investigations into the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital case continue, new developments are emerging. The brutal rape and murder of a female doctor at the RG Kar Medical College on August 9 has once again raised questions about the safety of women.


Initially, Kolkata Police had arrested a civic volunteer, Sanjay Rai, in connection with this horrific incident. However, the case took a significant turn last Saturday night when the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) arrested two more individuals: Tala Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Abhijit Mondal and former Principal of RG Kar Hospital, Sandeep Ghosh. This brings the total number of arrests in this case to three.

The CBI has recently discovered multiple errors in the Kolkata Police’s case file, which they believe might unravel further mysteries. The central investigative agency is now planning to interrogate a high-ranking police officer via video conferencing as part of their ongoing probe.

During their investigation, CBI officials identified a series of discrepancies in the case diary maintained by the Kolkata Police. According to reports, these mistakes have led the CBI to question the integrity of the initial investigation. The CBI suspects that issues began as early as the start of the investigation and that these errors were not merely accidental but potentially indicative of deeper problems.

From August 9 to August 13, the CBI has been scrutinizing the call details of various police officials involved in the case. This thorough examination has brought several new findings to light, adding complexity to the investigation.

As the CBI continues to delve deeper into the case, the public and media remain on edge, hoping for answers and justice for the victim.
Politics, West Bengal

Junior Doctors Meet Mamata Banerjee at Kalighat Amid Ongoing Strike

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, September 14, 2024 – Kolkata: Junior doctors, who have been on strike protesting the rape and murder of a young doctor at RG Kar Medical College Hospital, reached West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s residence in Kalighat on Saturday evening. The doctors are demanding justice for the slain doctor and reforms in hospital security.


On the 35th day of the strike, Mamata Banerjee visited the protest site at Dharnamanch, offering assurances to meet the doctors’ demands. Her gesture was welcomed by both the parents of the victim and the medical student community. Later that evening, a delegation of 32 junior doctors arrived at the Chief Minister’s residence, chanting slogans like “We want justice” before entering for a meeting.

Despite their ongoing protest, the junior doctors have decided to resume medical services for 12 hours at Bankura Sammilani Medical College Hospital starting Sunday. They informed college authorities of their decision earlier on Saturday.