The Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors (MARD) on Wednesday launched a protest against the Satara doctor`s death case, demanding Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe into the matter.
The MARD demanded an urgent transfer of the investigation into the death of the 28-year-old woman doctor at the Sub-District Hospital in Phaltan in Satara, to an independent Special Investigation Team (SIT). The association has called for the SIT to operate under judicial supervision to ensure a fair and transparent inquiry, an official statement said on Wednesday.
MARD has expressed deep anguish over the incident, highlighting concerns about administrative accountability, workplace safety, and the dignity of doctors in the government healthcare system.
The association also condemned conflicting reports and speculative narratives circulating in the media, which have created confusion and raised doubts about the impartiality of the ongoing investigation.
MARD has outlined several demands, including:
– Transfer of the case to an independent SIT led by a retired High Court Judge and a senior woman IPS officer.
– Fast-track judicial proceedings in a dedicated court with a Special Public Prosecutor.
– Legal and departmental action against officials who ignored repeated complaints by the deceased doctor.
– Implementation of the Health Protection Act and creation of an Independent Medical Grievance Redressal Authority.
– Establishment of a statewide mental health support system for doctors and activation of POSH/ICC committees at all government healthcare institutions.
– Protection for whistleblowers and witnesses involved in the investigation.
– Public disclosure of the investigation’s findings.
– Compensation of at least Rs 5 crore for the bereaved family and employment for one family member.
– Formation of an independent committee to review working conditions and safety of government doctors.
MARD also announced a series of peaceful protests across Maharashtra to demand justice and systemic reforms. Actions include wearing black ribbons, displaying awareness banners, digital campaigns, candlelight marches, and suspension of non-emergency duties in hospitals, culminating in a statewide rally if authorities fail to act.
The doctor`s body on Wednesday said that all protests will remain non-violent and disciplined, focusing on truth, justice, and dignity for doctors.
“This incident is a turning point for Maharashtra’s medical community. It demands not only justice for the deceased Medical Officer but also structural reform, legal
protection, and respect for every doctor serving in the public system. MARD stands united in grief, solidarity, and resolve – committed to ensuring justice, dignity, and accountability within Maharashtra’s healthcare framework,” the statement said.
Agitation planned by MARD
MARD has announced a statewide peaceful protest demanding justice for the deceased Medical Officer and long-overdue systemic reforms to safeguard doctors working under government service.
All demonstrations will remain non-violent, disciplined, and patient-sensitive.
Agitation Schedule:
1. 29th October 2025 (Wednesday):
Doctors will wear Black Ribbons while on duty, symbolizing protest and solidarity.
2. 30th October 2025 (Thursday):
Awareness banners to be displayed in hospitals. Doctors will wear black tape on their mouths to represent silenced voices.
3. 31st October 2025 (Friday):
Digital art and Rangoli campaigns spreading messages of justice and workplace dignity and candle march
4. 1st–2nd November 2025 (Weekend):
Statewide social media awareness drive and and on evening of 2nd November, statewide candle light march with involvement of all organisations and general public.
5. 3rd November 2025 (Monday):
Non-emergency duties suspended, while emergency and ICU services continue uninterrupted.
6. 4th November 2025 (Tuesday):
Statewide rally with complete suspension of non-emergency duties until decisive action is taken. MARD along with other state medical associations will be compelled to assemble in thousands at Azad Maidan.
