Strengthening Safety for Women in Medical Education

The 64th annual Indian Medical Association conference in Thane advocated for enhanced safety measures for medical students, particularly women. Triggered by recent incidents, including a high-profile case in Kolkata, the conference underscored demands for improved campus security and healthcare sector reforms.

The need for enhanced safety and security measures for women in medical education took center stage at the 64th annual conference of the Indian Medical Association's Maharashtra chapter in Thane. The discussions, held on Saturday, come in the aftermath of the nation-shocking incident of a postgraduate student's rape and murder in Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in August.

With over 60 percent of medical students being female, IMA national president Dr. Anil J Nayak emphasized the importance of ensuring campus and workplace safety. This call to action aligns with the organization's vigorous demands for government and private institutions to take tangible steps toward creating a secure environment for women.

Additionally, the conference addressed pressing issues in the healthcare sector, such as the troubling 1:1800 doctor-patient ratio in India. IMA Maharashtra president Dr. Santosh Kadam unveiled the 'IMA Health Manifesto,' which includes significant reforms like stiffer penalties for assaults on medical staff and calls for better housing for students.

(With inputs from agencies.)