New Delhi, July 21: The Resident Doctors’ Association (RDA) of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi, has urged President Droupadi Murmu to initiate an independent and time bound investigation into the events that unfolded at Jantar Mantar during a protest a day earlier.
In a formal representation submitted to the President, the doctors’ body expressed concerns over allegations of force being used against protesters, including students, medical professionals, and young citizens participating in the demonstration.
The association stated that reports of police action involving lathi charge, tear gas, and physical force against demonstrators were “deeply unsettling” and required a transparent examination.
While acknowledging that some details surrounding the incident remain disputed, the RDA pointed out that videos and eyewitness accounts circulating publicly had raised questions about the handling of peaceful protests and the response of authorities.
Doctors Raise Concerns Over Alleged Police Conduct
The AIIMS doctors’ association also highlighted concerns regarding videos that allegedly showed some police personnel covering their faces and name badges during the incident.
According to the association, such actions could affect transparency and accountability in law enforcement operations.
The doctors emphasized that maintaining public trust requires clear identification and accountability of officials involved in crowd management and law enforcement duties.
Questions Raised Over Sonam Wangchuk’s Hospital Stay
The RDA also addressed reports concerning climate activist and education reformist Sonam Wangchuk’s hospitalisation at Safdarjung Hospital.
The association said that claims suggesting Wangchuk was not allowed to leave the hospital despite requesting discharge against medical advice raised important concerns about patient rights and medical ethics.
The doctors noted that the principles of informed consent and patient autonomy are fundamental aspects of healthcare practice.
They stated that every competent patient has the right to make decisions regarding their medical treatment, including the option to discontinue care, provided legal and medical guidelines are followed.
RDA Calls for Transparency and Protection of Democratic Rights
In its appeal, the Resident Doctors’ Association requested the President to ensure a fair investigation into the Jantar Mantar episode, examine allegations of excessive force, and review the circumstances surrounding Wangchuk’s continued hospitalisation.
The association stressed the importance of protecting citizens’ constitutional rights, including the right to peaceful protest and freedom of expression.
Calling itself an apolitical organisation, the RDA clarified that its appeal was based on concerns related to democratic values, human rights, and medical ethics rather than political interests.
Association Appeals for Dialogue and Rule of Law
The doctors’ body stated that peaceful protest is an essential part of democracy and that genuine public concerns should be addressed through dialogue and constitutional mechanisms.
The RDA expressed confidence in the President’s office and requested intervention to ensure that citizens’ rights and the principles of justice remain protected.
The association maintained that an impartial inquiry would help establish facts, address concerns raised by different sections of society, and strengthen public confidence in democratic institutions.