NHRC Launches Inquiry After AISU Flags Alleged Police Excesses in West Bengal Hunger Strike

KOLKATA, India — The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued a formal notice to the Kolkata Police Commissioner following allegations of excessive force used during a peaceful protest supporting a hunger strike by junior doctors. The notice, based on a complaint by the All India Students’ Union (AISU), demands an impartial investigation into the October 9 demonstration at the Tridhara Sammilani Durga Puja Pandal and a detailed Action Taken Report within four weeks.

The protest, Abhaya Parikrama, was organized by AISU to highlight the plight of junior doctors in West Bengal. These doctors, on a prolonged hunger strike, are calling for reforms in the state’s healthcare system, including better hospital infrastructure, a streamlined patient referral process, and improved safety measures for healthcare workers.

‘This Is a Fight for Fundamental Rights’

AISU leaders have issued strong statements condemning the government’s handling of the protests and calling for immediate action to address the doctors’ demands.

“This is a fight for fundamental rights, not privileges,” said Shri Digamber Kumar Dubey, Chairman of the Federation of Indian Youth Association and AISU’s national president. “The junior doctors are risking their lives to draw attention to the deficiencies in our healthcare system. It’s shameful that their voices remain unheard, and we commend the NHRC for stepping in to uphold their dignity and rights.”

The AISU has been vocal about the need for accountability from both law enforcement and the government. “Doctors should not have to starve themselves to be heard,” said Shri Sai Krishna, National Vice-President of AISU. “Their demands reflect a broken system that endangers both healthcare providers and patients. The authorities must engage in meaningful dialogue with the protesting doctors and act swiftly to resolve these issues.”

Shri Navneet Singh, National General Secretary of AISU, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the urgency of action:

“It is unconscionable that those entrusted with public health must jeopardize their lives to demand safe working conditions and adequate infrastructure. We implore the government to address these rightful demands without further delay.”

A Crisis on the Ground

The hunger strike has drawn widespread attention as the health of the protesting junior doctors continues to decline. Local AISU leaders described the worsening conditions as a “human rights crisis.”

“As State President of AISU West Bengal, I have seen the desperation and frustration of these doctors firsthand,” said Shri Soumyajit. “They’ve resorted to extreme measures because their calls for help have gone unanswered. The silence from the government is an alarming violation of their basic rights. We urge the authorities to open dialogue with the doctors immediately.”

The hunger strike has also spotlighted broader deficiencies in the state’s healthcare system. “This is not just about infrastructure or pay—it’s about creating a system where healthcare professionals feel safe and supported,” said Shri Aryan Gupta, AISU’s National Organizing Secretary. “The doctors’ demands are both urgent and fair. It’s time the government responds with the urgency this crisis deserves.”

A Call for Reform

As the NHRC’s intervention unfolds, AISU leaders hope it will catalyze meaningful change.

Shri Sai Ram B, National Convenor of AISU’s Press Department, highlighted the symbolic power of the doctors’ hunger strike:

“It’s a tragic irony that doctors dedicated to saving lives are now risking their own to demand justice. Their protest is a stark reminder of the need for urgent systemic reforms. The AISU Press Department remains committed to amplifying their voices and shedding light on these injustices. We commend the NHRC for taking this crucial step and hope it compels the state to act decisively.”

The AISU has vowed to continue its advocacy, ensuring accountability from the government and law enforcement. “This protest reflects the glaring gaps in our healthcare system that can no longer be ignored,” said Shri Digamber Kumar Dubey.

As the hunger strike persists, the doctors’ fight for safer working conditions and healthcare reform underscores the pressing need for structural change. The NHRC’s involvement has raised the stakes, but the road to resolution hinges on whether the state government will heed the call for justice.