IMA Pleads for Hospitals to Be Safe Zones Amid Nationwide Strike

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has called for hospitals to be declared safe zones and demanded a new law to protect healthcare workers. This comes amid a 24-hour nationwide withdrawal of non-emergency medical services to protest the alleged rape and killing of a doctor in Kolkata.

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has called for hospitals across the country to be declared safe zones, akin to airports, allowing doctors to work without fear, said IMA chief Dr. R V Asokan on Friday.

The IMA's demands include a national law to address violence against healthcare workers, as current state laws are ineffective. This follows the alleged rape and killing of a trainee woman doctor in Kolkata, which has prompted a 24-hour nationwide strike of non-emergency medical services.

Asokan emphasized the need for decent investigation and timely prosecution in cases of violence against healthcare workers, alongside better working conditions, including limiting excessive duty hours for resident doctors.

(With inputs from agencies.)