JPMC doctors strike against harassment of female colleague

Doctors at Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Center (JPMC) in Karachi staged a strike on Monday in protest against the alleged harassment of a female colleague by the Kidney Surgery Ward In-charge, Dr. Shehzad. In a show of solidarity, medical staff wore black armbands and refrained from duties in the operation theaters and outpatient departments (OPDs).

The protest came in response to the reported harassment incident involving Dr. Mehreen Urooj, who has been waiting for over two weeks for the release of an inquiry report into the matter. In frustration, Dr. Urooj submitted a formal application to the hospital administration, demanding the immediate release of the report and swift action against Dr. Shehzad.

In her application, Dr. Urooj expressed concern over the delay and reiterated her demand for accountability. “I have been waiting for the inquiry report for the past two weeks. I am requesting immediate action and a transparent investigation into this matter,” she stated.

Dr. Ammar Danish, a prominent figure in the protest, emphasized the medical community’s commitment to standing by Dr. Urooj. “We will not allow injustice to prevail. The Young Doctors Association (YDA) fully supports Dr. Mehreen and demands that the matter be resolved without further delay,” Dr. Danish said.

The strike reflects growing concerns among healthcare professionals about the need for a safe and respectful working environment for all medical staff, especially female colleagues. The doctors’ actions highlight their determination to ensure that the issue is addressed and justice is served.