**New Delhi, October 14, 2024**: The Federation of All India Medical Association (FAIMA) has called for a nationwide strike starting today in solidarity with junior doctors protesting against the sexual assault and murder of a second-year trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College, West Bengal. The incident, which has sparked outrage across the medical community, has led to an indefinite hunger strike by the junior doctors for the past 65 days.In support of the ongoing protests, FAIMA urged medical associations and resident doctors across the country to suspend all non-emergency services starting October 14. The strike aims to bring attention to the escalating violence faced by healthcare professionals and the West Bengal government’s alleged neglect of the doctors on hunger strike.Adding to the growing unrest, around 79 senior doctors and faculty members of RG Kar Medical College and Hospital have resigned in solidarity with the protesting junior doctors. The resignations are a stark sign of the deepening crisis within the healthcare system, as the medical community demands justice for their murdered colleague and protection from future violence.FAIMA’s statement emphasized the widespread discontent within the medical fraternity, accusing the West Bengal government of failing to address the demands of the doctors. “The continued inaction in the face of such brutality has left us with no choice but to strike. This is not just about one tragic incident; it’s about the growing violence against doctors across the country,” said a FAIMA spokesperson.The strike will affect elective services in hospitals nationwide, with only emergency treatments continuing to be offered. Patients requiring routine procedures and non-urgent care are expected to face delays as a result of the protest.The medical community is urging the government to take swift and decisive action to ensure the safety of healthcare professionals and address the growing concerns over workplace violence. Further discussions between the doctors’ association and government officials are anticipated, but for now, the strike continues, leaving many healthcare services in a state of disruption.