Hours after the Supreme Court of India appealed to the doctors holding nationwide protests against the rape and murder of a trainee doctor in Kolkata to return to work, the Resident Doctors' Association (RDA) of AlIMS, Dr Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital (RML) and Indira Gandhi Hospital (IGH) in New Delhi informed that they are calling off their 11-day strike.
Following this, the Federation of All India Medical Association (FAIMA) also informed that they are ending their strike.
"#FAIMA has decided to call off the strike following positive directions from the #Chief Justice of India. We welcome the acceptance of our prayers for interim protections and the necessary steps to enhance security in hospitals. United, we will continue to fight legally," FAIMA said in a post on X.
In a statement, the RDA of AIIMS also thanked the Supreme Court for taking cognizance of the incident and said that they are calling off the 11 day strike in response to the appeal and direction of the court.
"In the interest of the nation and in the spirit of public service, the RDA, AlIMS, New Delhi, has decided to call off 11-day strike. This decision comes in response to the appeal and direction of the Hon'ble Supreme Court of India. We extend our sincere appreciation to the Supreme Court for taking cognizance of the RG Kar Medical College incident and addressing the broader issue of safety and security for healthcare workers across the country," the statement said.
The association also acknowledged the setting up of a National Task Force by the SC to address the concerns put forth by the protesters.
"We also commend the formation of the National Task Force to ensure that these concerns are addressed promptly and effectively. We strongly urge the authorities to strictly adhere to the directives issued by the Supreme Court," the statement said.
In a statement issued by the RDA of RML and IGH hospitals, the doctors' body lauded the directive by the top court not to take action against the protesting doctors.
"We strongly urge the authorities to comply fully with the directives issued by the Supreme Court. Furthermore, we are grateful for the court's directive that no punitive action be taken against the protesting doctors. We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported us in our quest for justice," the statement said.
However, the associations said that they will continue with their protests after the working hours till proper implementation of safety guidelines.
"Our primary responsibility- "patient care" remains our utmost priority, and we are dedicated to upholding it. We stand united in our mission. We will continue our struggle through symbolic protest after duty hours till justice is served and implementation of safety guidelines," the statement issued by the associations read.