Delhi Medical Association Moves Supreme Court in Kolkata Medic's Rape and Murder Case

The Delhi Medical Association has sought to be a party in a Supreme Court case regarding the rape and murder of a postgraduate medic in Kolkata. The association has called for creating a module to protect medical personnel from violence and listed various directions for ensuring their safety in healthcare institutions.

The Delhi Medical Association on Monday petitioned the Supreme Court to be made a party in the suo motu case concerning the rape and murder of a postgraduate medic at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata.

The renowned doctors' body, boasting over 15,000 members, has proposed the formation of a committee headed by a former Supreme Court judge. The committee's mandate would be to develop a comprehensive scheme to safeguard doctors and medical personnel from violence in healthcare settings.

Chief Justice DY Chandraachud's bench is slated to hear the case on Tuesday. The Delhi Medical Association, represented by senior lawyer Vijay Hansaria and advocate Sneha Kalita, has suggested the committee include representatives from various medical and government bodies, police officers, civil society members, and doctor representatives from RG Kar Medical College.

In the interim, the association has advocated for police districts to conduct threat assessments at government hospitals and for the installation of a distress call alert system in all healthcare facilities, connected to local police and hospital security. Additionally, mandatory CCTV installation in healthcare institutions and an immediate FIR within 24 hours of any such incidents were recommended, along with the prohibition of firearms in medical facilities.

(With inputs from agencies.)