New Delhi: The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has expressed strong disapproval of the Supreme Court-constituted National Task Force’s (NTF) recommendations on the safety of doctors, particularly its stance against the necessity of a Central law for their protection.
During his visit to Hyderabad, IMA national president R.V. Asokan described the NTF’s approach as “elitist” and disconnected from the challenges faced by grassroots medical professionals.
“We feel betrayed by the NTF members, many of whom are shielded from the realities faced by doctors in villages and Tier-3 cities. These elite professionals, operating in well-secured environments, cannot comprehend the fears of those working in vulnerable settings,” Dr. Asokan said.
The demand for a Central law has intensified following a rise in violence against doctors, including the recent alleged rape and murder of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata. In response to such incidents, the Supreme Court on August 20 directed the formation of a nine-member NTF to address issues related to the safety and working conditions of medical professionals.
Dr. Asokan emphasized that while legislation alone cannot eliminate violence, a Central law would send a strong signal of government support. “A Central law cannot solve every aspect of violence, but it would assure doctors across the nation that the government stands firmly behind them,” he said.
The IMA intends to present its views on the NTF’s recommendations during the ongoing suo-motu case in the Supreme Court. “Many NTF members may never have experienced attacks in their careers, but countless doctors nationwide live under the constant threat of violence,” Dr. Asokan remarked. “It is imperative for the government to prioritize a Central law to protect doctors, especially those in underserved and high-risk areas.”
The NTF’s recommendations for preventing violence against medical professionals, as per the suo-motu petition, include:
- Formation of a security committee in healthcare facilities
- Deployment of trained security personnel
- Coordination with local police
- Installation of CCTV surveillance
- Establishment of a distress call system and Quick Response Team
- Centralized helpline number
- Transportation facilities for doctors and staff at night
