India’s Supreme Court has ordered the creation of a national task force to strengthen security for healthcare workers following the tragic rape and murder of a 31-year-old doctor in Kolkata. This horrific incident, which occurred on August 9, has ignited widespread protests and medical strikes across the country, highlighting the urgent need to address violence against women and healthcare professionals.
Nationwide Outrage and Protests: The brutal murder has sparked nationwide anger, with doctors from government-run hospitals in multiple cities launching strikes that have disrupted non-essential services. Protesters in Kolkata marched through the streets on Tuesday, demanding justice for the victim and calling for better protection for healthcare workers.
Supreme Court Intervention: In response to the growing crisis, the Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, issued an order to establish a national task force. This task force will include top medical professionals and security experts tasked with developing a comprehensive plan to prevent violence in healthcare facilities. The court emphasized the need for an enforceable national protocol to ensure safe working conditions.
Security Concerns in Healthcare Facilities: The court highlighted the serious lack of safety measures in many medical establishments, noting the absence of CCTV cameras, inadequate security personnel, and poor screening of visitors. The judges stressed that healthcare workers, particularly women, are increasingly vulnerable to violence due to these deficiencies.
Impact on Patients: The ongoing doctors’ strikes have left many patients without access to essential medical services. For instance, 65-year-old Oresa Khatoon has been anxiously waiting for over ten days for an appointment at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), as the strikes have caused long delays in treatment.
Conclusion: The Supreme Court’s directive to create a national task force underscores the critical need for systemic changes to protect healthcare workers in India. This move aims to prevent further tragedies and ensure that healthcare professionals can work in safe and secure environments.
