In response to widespread protests by resident doctors, the Indian government has approved a 25% increase in security measures across all central government hospitals. This decision comes in the wake of calls for enhanced protection following the tragic rape and murder of a trainee doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Hospital.
The Health Ministry’s new directive includes not only an increase in standard security protocols but also the potential deployment of marshals at government hospitals, contingent upon individual security assessments. This move aims to address concerns about safety in medical facilities, although officials have indicated that the tragic incident at RG Kar Hospital was not a case of patient-doctor violence, and thus, a central law might not significantly alter the current situation.
Currently, 26 states and Union territories have enacted laws to protect healthcare personnel, categorizing offenses against them as cognizable and non-bailable. Officials argue that introducing a central law specifically in response to the RG Kar case might not yield substantial improvements, as the case does not fall under the category of patient-doctor violence.
In addition to increased security, a committee chaired by the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) will be established to review various aspects of hospital security and facilities. This committee will assess issues such as duty room conditions, working hours, and canteen services to improve overall safety and working environments for medical staff.
Despite these measures, doctors nationwide are urging for the swift enactment of a special law to specifically address violence against healthcare workers. The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has also appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for intervention to implement a central law and designate hospitals as safe zones with mandatory security measures.
The government has advised doctors to resume their duties, emphasizing that ongoing strikes are affecting patient care. The push for enhanced security and legal protections reflects a growing concern over the safety of healthcare professionals in India.
Sources By Agencies
