Service Doctors' Forum Demands High-Level Inquiry into Fatal Kolkata Hospital Lift Accident
The Service Doctors' Forum (SDF) has issued a strong demand for a high-level inquiry into the tragic lift accident at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata, which resulted in the death of Arup Banerjee. The organization is calling for immediate action against those responsible and adequate compensation for the victim's family.
Demands for Accountability and Infrastructure Improvements
In addition to the inquiry, the SDF has emphasized the urgent need for regular maintenance of elevators and other critical medical equipment across all state medical colleges. The forum highlighted that these safety measures are essential to protect doctors, staff, students, patients, and their attendants.
A letter addressed to the state principal secretary by physicians Durga Prosad Chakraborty and Sajal Biswas, president and general secretary of SDF respectively, stated: "Improvement of health infrastructure and ensuring the safety of doctors, staff, students, patients and their attendants were part of the RG Kar movement. However, even after 19 months, these demands remain far from being fulfilled. The authorities appear to be reluctant in addressing these issues."
Broader Calls for Action from Medical Community
On Friday, the Association of Health Service Doctors also sent a letter to the principal secretary, demanding accountability and a fair probe into the incident. This collective action underscores growing concerns within the medical community about neglected infrastructure and safety protocols in healthcare facilities.
The demands include:
- A thorough investigation into the lift accident.
- Legal action against individuals found guilty.
- Financial compensation for the victim's family.
- Implementation of regular maintenance schedules for hospital equipment.
This incident has reignited discussions about the state of health infrastructure in West Bengal, with doctors urging authorities to prioritize safety and prevent such tragedies in the future.
