Doctors’ Strike Over Kolkata Incident Leads to Enhanced Security at Central Hospitals

Doctors’ Strike Over Kolkata Incident Leads to Enhanced Security at Central Hospitals

Enhanced Security Measures at Union Government Hospitals:

  • The Health Ministry has ordered a 25% increase in security deployment at all union government hospitals amidst ongoing protests by resident doctors. This response comes after the distressing incident involving the alleged rape and murder of a trainee doctor at a Kolkata hospital.

Background of the Protests:

  • The protests, sparked by the incident at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, have led to a nationwide outcry among medical professionals. Doctors are demanding a central law to ensure their safety and prevent such incidents from recurring.

Current Legal Framework:

  • Official sources noted that existing laws already cover crimes such as assaults on healthcare workers. States like West Bengal, Uttarakhand, Delhi, and Maharashtra have specific legislation protecting healthcare personnel, making offenses cognizable and non-bailable.

Committee Formation and Goals:

  • A committee, under the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), will be formed to review security and facility aspects at hospitals. Focus areas include:
    • Assessment and improvement of duty rooms, working conditions, and canteen services.
    • Evaluating the need for marshals based on individual hospital security assessments.

Continuation of the Strike:

  • Despite the proposed enhancements, the doctors' strike in New Delhi has entered its second week, significantly affecting patient care. The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has sought intervention from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, pushing for hospitals to be designated as safe zones with mandatory security protocols akin to those at airports.

Provision of Medical Services During the Strike:

  • While the strike has led to a suspension of several services, essential emergency services like ICUs and emergency surgeries are still operational. Elective OPD services are being provided selectively outside major institutions like Nirman Bhawan.

Appeal for Reconsideration:

  • The Ministry is urging doctors to end the strike, emphasizing that hospitals, as public facilities, cannot be completely transformed into high-security zones without affecting their accessibility and function.