IMA HQ takes serious note of the incidents in Chennai where the cremation of doctors has been obstructed. This comes after the helplessness of the state Government in preventing such issues. It is a matter of great concern that these doctors who had died in their line of duty be treated shabbily and in such an uncivilised manner.
Even more shocking is the utter helplessness of the state Government in preventing such incidents. If the Governments do not have power to stop such incidents they lose their moral right to govern.
“IMA has shown much restraint in spite of extreme provocations. That doesn’t mean our patience is endless. Abuse, violence, spitting, pelting of stones, denial of entry to societies and residential accommodation have been tolerated so far since we expected the Governments to do their normal duty. When they are unable to discharge their constitutional obligations, perhaps these are not normal times. Denial of dignity in death is the ultimate sacrilege.” Said Dr Rajan Sharma, National President, IMA
It has to be realised that the doctors are rendering services at extreme risk to themselves. No nation sends its army to war without weapons. Doctors, nurses and health care workers of this country have been sent to fight against COVID 19 without PPEs and they are dying young defending their people. If the value of such services are not realised, the easiest thing for the doctor community will be to sit at home. The bigger sufferers will be the community.
“While all other interventions have already been withdrawn and it is very unfortunate if more services are going to be withheld for non-medical reasons. The state Governments concerned are better warned to perform their constitutional duties as expected. Failing which IMA has no option but to resort to drastic steps to protect the rights of the medical profession. Appropriate Retaliatory measures will be decided if the constitutional machinery breaks down.” Said Dr RV Asokan, Secretary General, IMA
