Indian doctors continue strike over trainee doctor's rape and murder

Junior doctors in West Bengal have vowed to continue their strike in protest of the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata, rejecting a Supreme Court ultimatum to return to work.

Hundreds of doctors, led by the West Bengal Junior Doctors’ Front, are demanding stronger security measures in hospitals and justice for the victim, whose body was discovered on August 9.

The group, representing approximately 7,000 doctors, said they would only consider complying with the court order if their demands were met, including the installation of CCTV cameras, improved patient services, and the removal of Kolkata’s police chief.

"We haven’t seen a single CCTV camera installed since the incident," said Dr. Shubhendu Malik, a spokesperson for the junior doctors. "There are no restrooms or separate toilets for men and women."

Protests have also spread globally, with demonstrations in 25 countries, including the United States and Japan, as calls for justice echo worldwide.

Rights activists say the case highlights ongoing sexual violence against women in India, despite stricter laws enacted after the 2012 Delhi gang rape and murder.

A police volunteer has been arrested for the crime, and the college's former principal faces charges of corruption.

The Supreme Court had warned doctors of potential "adverse action" if they failed to return to work by Tuesday.