Despite the rising tensions, the state government sent a fresh proposal, offering to resume dialogue with the protestors, though it has firmly rejected the doctors’ preconditions. The junior doctors, organized under the West Bengal Junior Doctors' Front (WBJDF), have demanded an independent inquiry into the death of their colleague, increased security for healthcare professionals, and the resignation of several senior officials in the state health department, whom they accuse of negligence.
State officials, including Health Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya, expressed frustration at the breakdown in discussions, accusing the doctors of politicizing the issue. Bhattacharya questioned whether the protests were motivated by political interests rather than a genuine quest for justice. Chief Secretary Manoj Pant voiced similar concerns, stating that the conditions imposed by the doctors had obstructed meaningful dialogue, diminishing the chances of resolving the crisis amicably.
However, the junior doctors have categorically denied any political affiliation, insisting that their movement is solely about improving working conditions and ensuring justice for their colleague. Kinjal Nanda, a representative of the WBJDF, stated that the demands reflect their desire for accountability and a fair investigation, adding that the protest will persist until their grievances are addressed.
The protests, which began after the death of the junior doctor, have gained significant momentum in the medical community and received widespread public support. Thousands of doctors have been participating in a sit-in protest outside Swasthya Bhavan, the Health Department's headquarters, refusing to return to work despite a Supreme Court order mandating their immediate resumption of duties. The Court had warned that failure to comply could lead to disciplinary action from the state, though the government has yet to act decisively on the court's directive.
Adding to the tension, the victim’s parents publicly joined the protestors in Kolkata, showing their support for the doctors’ cause. The father of the deceased doctor addressed the crowd, stating that the doctors' demands were justified and urging the government to deliver justice. Public support has further swelled, with residents and students from nearby universities providing supplies to the demonstrators, despite the ongoing stalemate.
As the protests continue, political tensions have also surfaced. Opposition parties, particularly the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), have been vocal about their support for the doctors. BJP MLA Agnimitra Paul’s visit to the protest site sparked controversy, with many doctors openly distancing themselves from any political backing. Chants of “Go back!” were directed at the BJP representative, underscoring the doctors' insistence that their movement remain apolitical.