The Supreme Court on Tuesday has established a 10-member task force to create a national protocol aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of doctors and health professionals, following the rape and murder of a medic in Kolkata.
The court highlighted that the working conditions for medical professionals have made them vulnerable to violence.
The task force is expected to submit an interim report within 3 weeks and a final report within two months. Chief Justice DY Chandrachud emphasized that protecting women doctors is a matter of national interest and that the principle of equality demands robust measures.
The Supreme Court stressed that the nation cannot wait for another tragic incident to prompt change. While there are existing laws to protect medical professionals, these do not address the systemic issues fully.
The task force includes notable members such as Vice Admiral RK Sarian, a surgeon; Dr. Reddy, Managing Director of the Asian Institute of National Gastrology; Dr. M Srinivas, Director of AIIMS Delhi; and Dr. Prathima Moorthy from NIMHANS, Bangalore. The Cabinet Secretary and Home Secretary to the Union Government will serve as ex-officio members.
The court also directed the CBI to provide a status report by August 22 on the investigation into the Kolkata rape-murder case. Additionally, the West Bengal government has been asked to file a status report by the same date regarding the investigation into the mob attack on RG Kar Hospital.
This action follows a suo motu case related to the rape and murder of a postgraduate medic at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata, which sparked a nationwide doctors’ strike.
