Supreme Court Establishes National Task Force to Prevent Violence Against Medical Professionals

The Supreme Court has instituted a National Task Force to create an action plan addressing violence against medical professionals, following the rape and murder of a doctor in Kolkata. The move underscores the urgent need for safe working conditions as more women join the workforce.

In a proactive measure, the Supreme Court announced on Tuesday the establishment of a National Task Force (NTF) dedicated to creating an action plan to prevent violence against medical professionals. This decision came in the wake of the rape and murder of a postgraduate doctor at RG Kar Medical College Hospital in Kolkata, West Bengal.

The bench, led by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, condemned the West Bengal government for its delay in registering the FIR and criticized the widespread circulation of the victim's name and graphic images on social media. The Chief Justice emphasized that the nation cannot afford to wait for another tragic incident to impart changes.

The NTF is composed of distinguished medical professionals and government officials. Its mandate involves formulating recommendations to enhance the safety and working conditions for medical professionals. The Supreme Court has urged the State and Central governments to provide comprehensive information on hospital security measures and submit status reports on the ongoing investigations.

(With inputs from agencies.)