Medical workers strike over trainee doctor's rape and killing

India's medical community initiated a nationwide strike on Saturday, protesting the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at a state-run hospital in West Bengal. The Indian Medical Association, the country's largest group of doctors, announced that all non-essential hospital services would be suspended for 24 hours. The strike reflects widespread outrage over the incident, which has drawn attention to the safety of medical professionals in India. A police volunteer has been detained in connection with the crime, but the victim's family claims it was a gang rape involving multiple perpetrators. Federal investigators are now involved, following accusations that state officials mishandled the initial investigation. Protesters are demanding justice for the victim, with some calling for the death penalty for those responsible. The strike highlights the vulnerability of medical workers, who often lack adequate safety measures in hospitals. The Indian Medical Association has called for public support in their "struggle for justice," labeling the incident a "crime of barbaric scale" and urging for stricter laws to protect healthcare professionals from violence. They propose that any attack on on-duty medics should be treated as a non-bailable offense. Sexual violence against women remains a pervasive issue in India, with many cases going unreported due to societal stigma and distrust in law enforcement. The National Crime Records Bureau reported a 20% increase in recorded rape cases in 2022, underscoring the urgent need for systemic change in addressing violence against women.