KOLKATA — Junior doctors in Kolkata, India, ended their 17-day hunger strike on Monday (Oct 21) in protest against the rape and murder of a fellow doctor, responding to an appeal from the victim's parents.

The protesters also met with the chief minister of the opposition-led state, which has faced criticism for its response to sexual crimes, to advocate for improved security and conditions in government hospitals, as well as justice for the victim.

A police volunteer has been arrested in connection with the crime, which ignited nationwide protests in August and September after the woman's body was discovered at R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital on August 9.

Dr. Debasish Halder, a spokesperson for the doctors, noted that the victim's parents expressed concern about the health of the fasting doctors and the disrupted healthcare services that have likely impacted many citizens. Some doctors participating in the strike experienced severe dehydration and required hospitalization.

The doctors reported that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee largely agreed to their demands during their meeting on Monday.

"Our fight for justice and a safe, effective healthcare system will persist," Halder stated, adding that the doctors would monitor the progress of her commitments and directives for improvements.

According to doctors, government hospitals throughout India lack basic facilities like restrooms for medical staff, security personnel, and closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems.

The issue has also been taken up by India's Supreme Court, but junior doctors claim that its efforts have not been adequate in securing justice.

Reports from Reuters indicate that the West Bengal government has been slow to establish new tribunals for such offenses and has failed to fulfill promises made to doctors in 2019 regarding enhanced safety measures.

Despite the introduction of stricter laws to protect women following the brutal gang rape and murder of a woman in New Delhi in 2012, activists argue that women continue to be vulnerable to sexual violence.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters file