Nationwide Doctors Protest: In response to the nationwide strike by doctors protesting the horrific rape and murder of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata, the Union Health Ministry has assured the medical community that it will take all necessary steps to ensure their safety.
The Ministry announced the formation of a committee to suggest measures for protecting healthcare professionals at their workplaces.
This assurance followed a meeting between officials from the Health Ministry and representatives from key medical organizations, including the Federation of Resident Doctors Association (FORDA), Indian Medical Association (IMA), and Resident Doctors’ Associations from governmental medical colleges and hospitals in Delhi.
The Ministry acknowledged the concerns raised by these associations and emphasized its commitment to addressing the issue.
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The Ministry also highlighted that 26 states have already enacted legislation for the protection of healthcare workers and stated that representatives from all stakeholders, including state governments, will be invited to contribute their suggestions to the newly formed committee.
The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has put forward five key demands:
- Central Legislation on Violence Against Healthcare Workers: The IMA is advocating for a robust central law to address violence against doctors and hospitals. They propose incorporating amendments made to the Epidemic Diseases Act of 1897 into the Hospital Protection Bill of 2019, with a suggestion for an ordinance similar to the one enacted during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Declaration of Hospitals as Safe Zones: The IMA demands that hospitals be declared as safe zones with mandatory security entitlements. They are calling for security protocols similar to those at airports, including the installation of CCTVs, deployment of security personnel, and other necessary measures.
- Improvement of Working Conditions for Resident Doctors: The IMA is calling for a thorough overhaul of the working and living conditions of resident doctors, particularly addressing issues like 36-hour duty shifts and the lack of safe resting spaces.
- Timely and Professional Investigation: The IMA demands a meticulous investigation into the Kolkata incident within a specific timeframe, with justice delivered promptly. They also want those responsible for vandalizing the hospital premises to be identified and punished appropriately.
- Compensation for the Victim’s Family: The IMA is seeking appropriate and dignified compensation for the family of the victim, in recognition of the severe cruelty inflicted.
The Health Ministry also urged the striking doctors to resume their duties in the interest of public health, especially given the current rise in cases of dengue and malaria.
