The RG Kar protest leadership crisis has reignited debates about justice, governance, and medical accountability in Bengal. On January 1, 2026, Aniket Mahata, one of the most visible faces of the 2024 junior doctors’ protests following the rape and murder of a postgraduate trainee at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, announced his resignation from the West Bengal Junior Doctors Front (WBJDF). His decision reflects deep divisions within the organisation and raises questions about the future of the movement that once shook Bengal’s healthcare system.
2. Background of the RG Kar Case
- In August 2024, a postgraduate trainee doctor was raped and murdered inside RG Kar Medical College.
- The incident sparked statewide protests by junior doctors demanding justice, safety, and accountability.
- The WBJDF was formed as a collective platform to unify doctors across medical colleges.
- Aniket Mahata emerged as a prominent protest leader, symbolising the demand for justice and reform.
3. Aniket Mahata’s Resignation
- On January 1, 2026, Aniket submitted a letter to the WBJDF trustees announcing his resignation as president.
- He cited disagreements over the formation of a new executive committee without legal consultation.
- Aniket described the move as “undemocratic and illegal”, arguing that the WBJDF constitution did not provide for such a committee.
- He emphasised that the decision undermined the spirit of the protests, which were rooted in demands for justice and transparency.
4. Internal Divisions in WBJDF
- A section of junior doctors, including trustee members, pushed for a separate executive committee.
- Aniket opposed the move, insisting on legal clarity before restructuring.
- Elections were reportedly held for the executive committee despite his objections.
- The split reflects broader tensions between grassroots activists and institutional leadership.
5. Legal and Professional Context
- Aniket is one of three doctors who filed a lawsuit against the state for failing to assign them to preferred hospitals during senior resident counselling.
- While others accepted postings, Aniket refused and pursued legal action.
- Despite court orders, the health department has not yet posted him at RG Kar, his preferred institution.
- His resignation adds another layer of complexity to his ongoing legal battle.
6. RG Kar Protest Leadership Crisis: Governance Challenges
The crisis reflects:
- Lack of clarity in organisational constitutions of protest movements.
- Fragile unity among junior doctors despite shared grievances.
- State resistance to demands for justice and reform.
- Judicial delays in resolving professional disputes.
7. Government External Links for Assistance
- West Bengal Health Department: https://wbhealth.gov.in
- National Medical Commission (NMC): https://www.nmc.org.in
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare: https://mohfw.gov.in
- Supreme Court of India: https://main.sci.gov.in
8. Historical Context of Doctors’ Protests in Bengal
- 2019: Junior doctors’ strike over assault on medical staff at NRS Medical College.
- 2024: RG Kar protests following rape and murder case.
- 2025: Continued agitation over safety and postings.
- The WBJDF was created to unify fragmented protests but now faces internal fractures.
9. Community Impact
- Patients fear disruptions in healthcare services due to divisions among doctors.
- Families of victims worry that justice demands may lose momentum.
- The resignation has sparked debates among medical students about leadership accountability.
- Civil society groups have urged doctors to maintain unity in pursuit of justice.
10. Global Comparisons
Similar medical protest crises worldwide:
- UK: Junior doctors’ strikes over pay and working conditions.
- USA: Resident doctors’ unions clashing with hospital administrations.
- Pakistan: Doctors’ protests over safety following attacks in hospitals.
The RG Kar case mirrors these global struggles where medical professionals balance activism with professional duties.
11. Governance Lessons
The resignation teaches:
- Legal frameworks are essential for protest organisations.
- Transparent decision‑making builds trust among members.
- Judicial efficiency is crucial in resolving professional disputes.
- Community engagement ensures protests remain connected to public welfare.
12. Future Outlook – Medical Accountability in Bengal
India must move towards:
- Codified safety protocols for doctors in hospitals.
- Independent grievance redressal bodies for medical professionals.
- Periodic audits of hospital security and governance.
- Dialogue platforms between doctors, government, and civil society.
13. Conclusion
The RG Kar protest leadership crisis following Aniket Mahata’s resignation underscores the fragility of movements born out of tragedy. While the WBJDF was created to unify doctors, internal divisions now threaten its credibility. For Bengal, the lesson is clear: justice for victims and accountability in healthcare must remain above organisational politics.
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