SC appoints National Task Force for healthcare workers, what will it do?

New Delhi: In response to the tragic rape and murder of a trainee doctor at R G Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata, the Supreme Court of India has taken decisive action. The court’s concern over the safety of healthcare workers has led to the formation of a National Task Force (NTF) comprising senior doctors. The NTF aims to address safety issues faced by medical professionals across the country.

How can women be safe?

The case involving the trainee doctor’s assault prompted widespread protests by doctors, who demanded justice for the victim and improved safety measures. Chief Justice of India, D Y Chandrachud, expressed deep concern about the lack of safe conditions for doctors. He emphasized the need for a national consensus on standardized protocols to ensure safe working environments. The question of equality under the Constitution arises: How can women be safe in their workplaces if such conditions are not guaranteed?

Setting up the National Task Force?

The NTF brings together experts from diverse backgrounds to devise practical solutions. Notable members include:

• Surgeon Vice-Admiral Arti Sarin
• Dr. D Nageshwar Reddy
• Dr. M Shreenivas
• Dr. Pratima Murty
• Dr. Goverdhan Dutt Puri
• Dr. Saumitra Rawat
• Prof. Anita Saxena (Head of Cardiology, AIIMS Delhi)
• Prof. Pallavi Sapre (Dean, Grant Medical College Mumbai)
• Dr. Padma Srivastava (Neurology Department, AIIMS)

Additionally, the NTF includes ex officio members:

• Cabinet Secretary to the Government of India
• Home Secretary to the Government of India
• Secretary, Union Health Ministry
• Chairperson of the National Medical Commission
• President of the National Board of Examiners

What is the purpose of the Task Force?

The NTF’s primary focus is on safeguarding medical professionals. Key aspects of their action plan include:

1. Enhanced security measures:

   • Identifying areas within hospitals, especially emergency rooms, that require additional security.
   • Implementing baggage screening protocols to prevent unauthorized items from entering medical facilities.
   • Restricting access to non-patients beyond specified limits.
   • Managing crowd control effectively.

2. Facilities and infrastructure:

   • Designating gender-neutral restrooms and spaces for doctors and nurses.
   • Installing biometrics and facial recognition systems where necessary.
   • Ensuring proper lighting and comprehensive CCTV coverage throughout medical institutions.

3. Transport and safety:

   • Arranging safe transportation for medical professionals working late hours (10 pm to 6 am).
   • Conducting workshops to address grief and crisis management.
   • Regularly auditing safety measures within institutions.

4. Police pesence

   • Establishing a police force proportional to hospital footfall.
   • Adhering to the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act.

The NTF’s proactive approach aims to create a safer environment for doctors, interns, and residents, emphasizing their well-being and dignity while fulfilling their critical roles in healthcare.