Supreme Court's National Task Force: Safeguarding Healthcare Professionals

The Supreme Court-constituted National Task Force will meet to develop protocols for the safety and security of doctors and healthcare workers. This 10-member task force, formed in response to the rape and murder of a trainee doctor, intends to create guidelines for preventing violence and improving working conditions in medical facilities.

The Supreme Court-appointed National Task Force (NTF) is set to convene for the first time on Tuesday to establish protocols ensuring the safety of doctors and healthcare professionals, sources confirmed.

The apex court formed the 10-member task force last week following the alleged rape and murder of a trainee doctor at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, which triggered widespread protests and disrupted medical services.

The task force includes high-ranking officials and experts such as Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin and Dr D Nageshwar Reddy, among others. The Union Health Ministry has detailed the Terms of Reference (ToR) for the NTF, which includes formulating recommendations on safety, working conditions, and the well-being of medical professionals.

The Supreme Court directed the NTF to create an action plan focusing on preventing violence, including gender-based violence, and ensuring safe working conditions. As part of the measures, the NTF will consider implementing screening systems at hospital entrances and establishing police posts in medical facilities.

Infrastructure improvements, including separate resting rooms for male and female medical staff and a gender-neutral common resting space, are also on the agenda.

(With inputs from agencies.)