New Delhi, Jul 21: The Resident Doctors’ Association (RDA) of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, has appealed to President Droupadi Murmu to order an independent and time-bound inquiry into the events that unfolded at Jantar Mantar during the recent protest, while also expressing concern over activist Sonam Wangchuk’s continued hospitalisation.
In a representation submitted to the President, the RDA alleged that reports of lathi-charge, tear gas and the use of force against peaceful protesters, including students, doctors and young citizens, were deeply disturbing.
The association said that while certain aspects of the incident remain disputed, videos and eyewitness accounts in the public domain have raised serious questions about the handling of peaceful democratic protests.
It also expressed concern over videos purportedly showing police personnel with their faces and name badges covered, stating that such actions undermine transparency and accountability in law enforcement.
The RDA further referred to reports claiming that Wangchuk was not allowed to leave Safdarjung Hospital despite seeking Leave Against Medical Advice (LAMA).
The association said that if such reports are accurate, they raise important questions regarding a competent patient’s autonomy and legal right to refuse or discontinue treatment.
Describing informed consent and the right to decline treatment as fundamental ethical and legal principles of medical practice, the RDA said any deviation from these norms should be supported by due legal process and transparent justification.
The association urged the President to ensure an independent, impartial and time-bound inquiry into the Jantar Mantar incident, investigate allegations of excessive force by law enforcement agencies, protect citizens’ constitutional rights to peaceful protest and free expression, and seek clarification on the circumstances surrounding Wangchuk’s continued hospitalisation.
Calling itself an apolitical body, the RDA said it firmly believes in every citizen’s democratic right to peaceful protest and expressed hope that genuine concerns would be addressed through constructive dialogue while upholding the rule of law.
