Udupi: Doctors hold protest for women’s safety at workplaces; hold candlelight vigil

Doctors in Udupi District Protest, Demand Stricter Laws for Women’s Safety at Workplaces

Udupi: Doctors across Udupi district took to the streets to protest, condemning the ra*pe and murder of PG Trainee doctor in Kolkata’s R G Kar Medical College and Hospital and demanding the implementation of stricter laws to ensure the safety of women at workplaces. The strike, which affected Outpatient Department (OPD) services in several areas, saw doctors from both private and government hospitals participating.

However, emergency medical services continued to be available at all hospitals.

The protest, led by the Indian Medical Association (IMA) Udupi Karavali branch, was supported by various medical associations, including Karkala IMA, Kundapura IMA, AYUSH practitioners, Indian Dental Association, paramedical staff, and nursing college faculty.

The doctors halted all non-emergency services at their clinics and hospitals from 6:00 AM on August 17 to 6:00 PM on August 18.

Dr. Rajalakshmi, President of IMA Udupi Karavali branch, and Dr. Vasudev, District Coordinator of IMA, stated that both the central and state governments need to enforce stringent laws to protect doctors.

On Saturday evening, a silent march was organized from Udupi Board High School to Ajjarkad Martyr’s Memorial. The participants, holding placards condemning the recent Kolkata incident involving the heinous crimes of rape and murder, demanded a fair investigation and strict punishment for the accused. They also called for measures to ensure the safety of women at workplaces. The march concluded with a candlelight vigil and prayers at the Martyr’s Memorial.