AIIMS Urges Resident Doctors to Resume Duties Amid Nationwide Protests

AIIMS Urges Resident Doctors to Resume Duties Amid Nationwide Protests

AIIMS Appeals to Resident Doctors to Resume Duties Amid Ongoing Protests

In the wake of the tragic incident involving the rape and murder of a junior doctor at RG Kar Medical College in Kolkata, the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, has requested its resident doctors to immediately resume their duties. The appeal comes as nationwide protests continue, with healthcare services being significantly impacted.

Key Points:

  • Commitment to Patient Care: Despite the ongoing protests, AIIMS has emphasized the supreme duty of doctors to ensure that patients receive uninterrupted care. In a statement issued by AIIMS Director Prof M. Srinivas, it was highlighted that the safety of healthcare professionals remains a priority, but patient care must not be neglected.
  • Government and Supreme Court Involvement: The Government of India has expressed its commitment to ensuring the safety of healthcare workers. The Supreme Court has also stepped in, constituting a 10-member National Task Force to formulate recommendations on preventing violence against medical professionals and ensuring safe working conditions.
  • Formation of a Task Force: The Supreme Court's task force includes prominent medical professionals like Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin. The task force has been directed to deliver an interim report within three weeks and a final report within two months. The focus will be on preventing gender-based violence and ensuring a dignified working environment for all healthcare professionals.
  • CBI Investigation: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has been asked to provide a status report on the ongoing investigation into the rape case. Additionally, the West Bengal government has been instructed to file a report on the mob attack at RG Kar Hospital that occurred on August 15.
  • Resident Doctors' Commitment: In solidarity, the Resident Doctors' Association of AIIMS, New Delhi, announced they would offer OPD services from Jantar Mantar. This move underscores their dedication to patient care despite the challenges posed by the current situation.

The appeal from AIIMS underscores the delicate balance between ensuring the safety of healthcare professionals and maintaining essential medical services for patients during times of crisis. The involvement of the Supreme Court and the formation of a National Task Force signal the gravity of the situation and the urgent need for systemic reforms in the healthcare sector.