The Supreme Court Takes Action to Ensure Safety of Medical Workers Following Tragic Incident
India’s Supreme Court has responded to the recent heinous attack on a trainee medic at a state hospital by setting up a national task force of doctors to address workplace safety issues. The 31-year-old trainee was raped and murdered in a state-run hospital in Kolkata, sparking widespread outrage and protests across the country.
Chief Justice Dhananjaya Yeshwant Chandrachud emphasized the importance of protecting the safety of medical workers, stating that it is a matter of national interest and equality. The court has ordered federal paramilitary forces to provide security at the hospital where the incident took place.
Doctors and healthcare workers in India have been demanding swift action and a thorough criminal investigation. The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has called for more stringent protections, especially since 60 percent of doctors in the country are women.
Despite tougher laws introduced in recent years, including harsher penalties and fast-track courts for rape cases, sexual violence remains prevalent in India. The government recorded a 20 percent increase in reported rape cases in 2022, highlighting the urgent need for improved safety measures and justice for victims.