Healthcare services across Nagaland were affected on Saturday as medical professionals- both private and government, across Nagaland joined the nationwide 24-hour strike called by the Indian Medical Association (IMA) in protest against the brutal rape and murder of a postgraduate trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata on August 9.
In response to the IMA’s call, medical professionals of District Hospital Dimapur (DHD) joined the nationwide strike at the hospital premises. DHD medical superintendent Dr Keviduyi Theyo informed Nagaland Post that outpatient services had been suspended as a mark of respect and protest, while emergency services continue so as to ensure that critical care remained available.
He said the hospital’s participation in the strike expressed the collective grief and anger of the medical community in Nagaland. DHD senior consultant Dr George Thira stated that the strike was initiated following directives from the Nagaland In-Service Doctors’ Association(NIDA). He emphasized public support for the medical community during this period of mourning and protest.
Doctors across the state are also wearing black badges as a mark of protest and to demand justice.
“The protest is not just about seeking justice for the victim but also about sending a clear message that violence against healthcare workers will not be tolerated,” he asserted.
He appealed everyone to extend support and sought immediate government intervention to address this issue and to ensure that those responsible for such crimes are brought to justice.