In a significant development, Aniket Mahata, one of the most prominent figures from the protests following the RG Kar Medical College rape and murder case, has resigned from the West Bengal Junior Doctors' Front (WBJDF). His departure marks a major shift within the forum that spearheaded the agitation for justice.
The Resignation and The Stated Reasons
Aniket Mahata, an anaesthesiologist who held the position of officiating president of the WBJDF Board of Trustees, made his resignation public by sharing the letter on social media. The letter, dated December 31, points to a critical disagreement with other trust members regarding the formation of an executive committee as the primary reason for his exit.
According to sources, discussions about electing this executive committee had been ongoing for several weeks. Mahata insisted on establishing a clear legal framework that defined the committee's role, its powers, and its relationship with the existing board of trustees before any election could be held. However, other members of the trust disagreed and proceeded with the voting process on Thursday.
A Protest Against The Process
Mahata chose to step down just hours before the voting commenced. He labeled the constitution of the new committee as "undemocratic" and "illegal," arguing that defining its relationship with the board was a necessary precursor. He also stated that the move went against legal advice received by the forum.
In a social media post on Friday, Mahata expressed his deep sadness, writing, "At the beginning of the new year, I am deeply saddened to state that despite my repeated objections, an undemocratic and illegal WBJDF election took place." He emphasized his continued accountability to the people in the movement for justice for Abhaya, the RG Kar victim.
He further clarified in his resignation letter that while he had occasional differences with other key members on how to advance the movement, he always prioritized unity. "The front was funded by the common people. What they decide to do is up to the front. We all fought together shoulder to shoulder. I hold no grudge against anyone," he wrote.
Broader Context and Reactions
The newly formed executive committee is said to comprise 37 members, and sources indicate that differences over the division of responsibilities and roles between the board of trustees and this new committee had already begun to surface.
Mahata's personal stance was also highlighted by his career decisions. A postgraduate from RG Kar Medical College, he refused to join his official posting at Raiganj Medical College after being offered a position at RG Kar during counselling. In contrast, two other key WBJDF members, Debasis Halder and Asfakulla Naiya, joined their assigned postings despite facing similar posting mismatches.
Reacting to the resignation, physician Sajal Biswas of the Service Doctors Forum said, "It is extremely unfortunate that circumstances forced Aniket to resign. Perhaps, for the sake of the movement, he had to step down. I hope in the future, even greater movements will be built under Aniket's leadership."
The resignation of such a central figure raises questions about the future direction of the WBJDF, which was born from a powerful public movement demanding justice, and underscores the internal challenges faced by activist groups.
