Kolkata doctor's rape-murder case: Nationwide strike by doctors underway, NCW flags lapses in probe
Kolkata: The 24-hour nationwide strike called by the Indian Medical Association (IMA) in response to the rape and murder of a doctor at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital began at 6 am on August 17, 2024.
The strike, which will continue until 6 am on August 18, has led to the suspension of non-emergency health services across the country.
However, essential services such as emergency care and critical treatments remain operational.
The National Commission for Women (NCW) has submitted a preliminary report highlighting significant lapses in the hospital's security, infrastructure, and the ongoing investigation into the incident. According to the report, the hospital lacked basic security measures, proper facilities for female staff, and sufficient protection for on-call interns and doctors, especially during night shifts.
The case, now being investigated by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), was transferred from the Kolkata Police by the Calcutta High Court on August 13.
The investigation follows accusations of a cover-up, with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee alleging deliberate attempts to destroy evidence by spreading misinformation.
As the strike continues, outpatient department (OPD) services in hospitals across states such as West Bengal, Punjab, and Jharkhand have been significantly affected, with private hospitals and doctors also joining the protest. The IMA has called for a timely investigation and justice for the victim.
Let the Truth be known. If you read VB and like VB, please be a VB Supporter and Help us deliver the Truth to one and all.
Sengottaiyan secures historic 10th victory in Gobichettipalayam assembly constituency
Gobichettipalayam (Tamil Nadu) (PTI): In a historic 10th win, veteran leader K A Sengottaiyan clinched the Gobichettipalayam seat in the 2026 Assembly elections.
Contesting for the first time under actor Vijay’s TVK, the 78-year-old secured approximately 71,380 votes, defeating DMK’s N Nallasivam by a margin of nearly 13,000 votes.
This win marks Sengottaiyan’s 10th consecutive victory in the constituency, cementing his status as an immovable force in the region despite his high-profile exit from the AIADMK in late 2025.
His success was a cornerstone for the TVK, which emerged as a formidable force across the state. Supporters celebrated the win as a testament to Sengottaiyan’s personal influence, which successfully transitioned from his former Dravidian home to the newly formed TVK.
