Union Health Ministry to Form Committee for Healthcare Professionals' Safety

The Union Health Ministry announced the formation of a committee to propose safety measures for healthcare professionals. Stakeholders, including state governments, will provide input. This follows demands from doctors' associations after the alleged rape and murder of a resident doctor in Kolkata. The ministry urges doctors to resume duties amidst rising dengue and malaria cases.

The Union Health Ministry on Saturday announced its plan to establish a committee aimed at suggesting comprehensive safety measures for healthcare professionals.

The committee will include representatives from all relevant stakeholders, including state governments, who will be invited to contribute their recommendations.

This move comes in response to nationwide protests by doctors following the alleged rape and murder of a resident doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata. The Ministry has urged agitating doctors to return to their duties, especially given the increasing cases of dengue and malaria.

Earlier, representatives from major medical associations, including the Federation of Resident Doctors' Association (FORDA), Indian Medical Association (IMA), and Delhi's government medical institutions, met with the Union Health Minister to discuss their concerns about healthcare workers' safety.

In a statement, the Health Ministry assured that their demands have been heard and efforts will be made to ensure their security. It was also noted that 26 states have already enacted laws for the protection of healthcare professionals.

(With inputs from agencies.)