IMA has called for a nationwide strike to protest Kolkata doctor incident

Strike has garnered widespread support from various medical associations

OPD services in government and private hospitals will be suspended for 24 hours

Patients planning a visit to hospitals tomorrow should reconsider their plans, as a major disruption in medical services is expected across India.

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has called for a nationwide strike to protest the recent rape and murder of a female doctor in Kolkata. The strike has garnered widespread support from various medical associations, including government doctors, private hospitals, and specialized medical groups.

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As a result, Outpatient Department (OPD) services in both government and private hospitals will be suspended for 24 hours. The strike is expected to be supported by over 30,000 doctors under the IMA, along with the Federation of Associations of Private Hospitals (FANA), and several other associations such as the Government Medical Officers Association, the Pediatricians Association, and the Orthopedic Association.

IMA State President Srinivas and Government Medical Officers Association President Vivek Dorai announced the protest during a press conference today. They confirmed that while emergency services will remain operational, doctors will wear black armbands in solidarity. Clinics, nursing homes, and multispecialty hospitals are also expected to remain closed, leaving patients with non-emergency ailments like fever or cough without access to treatment.

Health Minister Dinesh Gundurao expressed indirect support for the protest, acknowledging the validity of the doctors’ grievances while urging them to minimize public inconvenience. With significant disruptions anticipated, the public is advised to plan accordingly.