SC Forms Task Force to Protect Health Professionals

SC Forms 10-Member Task Force for Doctor Safety Protocol

The Supreme Court of India has constituted a 10-member task force to develop a national protocol aimed at safeguarding doctors and healthcare professionals. This action follows the tragic rape and murder of a postgraduate medical student at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata.

Key Points:

• Task Force Composition: The task force includes notable members such as Vice Admiral RK Sarian, Dr. Reddy, MD of Asian Institute of National Gastrology, Dr. M Srinivas, Director - AIIMS Delhi, and Dr. Prathima Moorthy from NIMHANS Bangalore. The Union Government’s Cabinet Secretary and Home Secretary will serve as ex-officio members.
• Report Submission: The task force is directed to submit an interim report within three weeks, with the final report due in two months.
• Court's Stand: Chief Justice DY Chandrachud emphasized that protecting women doctors is of national interest, stating that the country cannot wait for another incident before changes are made.
• Further Actions: The Supreme Court has directed the CBI to submit a status report on the ongoing investigation by August 22. The West Bengal government is also required to report on the progress of the probe into the mob attack at the RG Kar Hospital.

This move by the Supreme Court is seen as a significant step towards addressing the systemic issues that leave medical professionals vulnerable to violence, ensuring their safety and improving working conditions across the country.