CNN Central News & Network-ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: KOLKATA: Junior doctors and interns at Kolkata’s government-run Medical College and Hospital have alleged that they faced threats and pressure after raising concerns about the treatment of people injured in the Chorebagan Durga Puja pandal stampede. The controversy has intensified debate over government hospital facilities, patient referrals and the treatment of medical professionals who speak out about shortcomings.
The doctors had questioned the decision to shift injured victims from the government hospital to a private healthcare facility following the stampede on October 17, which claimed several lives. They alleged that the hospital lacked essential medicines, equipment and adequate trauma-care facilities to manage serious emergencies. They also raised questions about why patients were referred to a private hospital after being admitted to the government institution.
According to reports, the junior doctors said the transfer instructions came through hospital authorities after directions from the state health department. They argued that the incident exposed gaps in public healthcare infrastructure and called for clarity on the circumstances under which patients would be transferred to private hospitals.
The allegations have triggered a wider dispute between sections of the medical community and the state administration. Some political and medical groups have questioned the doctors’ decision to hold a press conference during the emergency, while doctors’ organisations have defended their right to raise concerns about patient care and hospital resources.
The allegations of threats and pressure remain matters of dispute. The episode has renewed calls for transparent procedures governing patient referrals, adequate supplies of essential medicines and equipment, and a safe working environment for healthcare staff.
The developments have placed hospital accountability and the protection of whistle-blowing medical professionals at the centre of public debate in West Bengal.
Hashtags: #WestBengalState #Bhopal #Kolkata #Junior #Doctors #Allege #Threats #Over #Stampede #KolkataJuniorDoctorsAllege
