Drafting model to upgrade doctor’s safety laws: centre

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Last Updated05/09/2024

Held on August 28, it was the second such meeting since the August 9 rape and murder of a junior doctor at Kolkata’s R G Kar Medical College and Hospital

In response to the recent tragic events, including the rape and murder of a junior doctor at Kolkata's R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital, the Government of India has initiated a series of measures aimed at enhancing security in hospitals and protecting medical professionals.
These steps were outlined in a high-level meeting held on August 28, 2024, which brought together DGPs and chief secretaries from all states and Union Territories (UTs).
This meeting was the second of its kind since the incident on August 9, reflecting the urgency with which the government is addressing this critical issue.

The meeting focused on identifying hospitals with high footfall and prioritizing them for security upgrades. This includes employing security personnel from among ex-servicemen or state security forces, a move that could leverage the discipline and experience of these groups to enhance the safety of medical institutions.
Additionally, the Centre has called for a comprehensive review of existing legislation to protect medical workers, recognizing that many states already have such laws in place, but that they may need to be updated to meet current challenges.
One of the key outcomes of the meeting was the decision to draft a "model legislation" by the Ministry of Home Affairs. This legislation will serve as an advisory for states and UTs, guiding them in adapting and strengthening their healthcare worker protection laws.

Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan emphasized the importance of conducting security audits in hospitals, particularly those with heavy footfall, as these institutions are more vulnerable to incidents that could escalate into law-and-order situations.
The proposed audits will involve collaboration between hospital authorities, local health and police authorities, and focus on vulnerable areas such as emergency rooms and ICUs. The integration of CCTV surveillance in high-risk zones with local police systems was also highlighted as a crucial step for ensuring a swift response to any incidents.
In conjunction with these measures, Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra called for internal sexual harassment committees to be established in hospitals and medical colleges.

The Supreme Court has played a pivotal role in driving these initiatives, directing the Union Health Ministry to engage with state and UT officials to ensure that adequate safety measures are implemented in hospitals.
The court's involvement underscores the seriousness of the issue and the need for a coordinated national response.
In the meeting, it was also proposed that hospitals conduct robust background checks for all outsourced personnel and contractual workers, a measure aimed at preventing individuals with questionable backgrounds from being employed in sensitive environments like hospitals.