Karnataka Government Forms Task Force to Enhance Safety Measures for Doctors
Bengaluru: In response to the recent tragic incident involving the rape and murder of a woman doctor in Kolkata, the Karnataka government has initiated a series of actions to bolster the safety of medical professionals in the state. Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao has announced the formation of a task force aimed at reviewing and recommending safety measures for doctors.
On Tuesday, Minister Rao convened a meeting at Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru with representatives from various medical organizations and health department officials. During the meeting, the Minister underscored the government’s commitment to safeguarding the numerous women employed in the medical sector.
The newly formed task force is tasked with delivering a comprehensive report within a month. This report will outline necessary safety measures, including the enhancement and implementation of existing laws designed to protect doctors. The task force will comprise senior officials from medical organizations and the health department.
Minister Rao highlighted that over 50% of medical professionals are women, and it is essential to eliminate the fear and insecurity they face in their work environments. The meeting saw participation from 10-12 different organizations, which discussed various strategies to improve security and preventive measures.
In response to the safety concerns, the Karnataka government has already taken steps to strengthen legal protections for doctors. Recent amendments to the law now stipulate a punishment of 3-7 years for those convicted of assaulting medical professionals. A notification regarding these changes was issued recently.
Recommendations from the meeting included raising public awareness about the legal protections available, installing CCTV cameras in hospitals, providing wristbands and panic buttons, conducting regular police inspections, and expediting the resolution of cases.
The task force will consider these suggestions and formulate a plan to enhance the safety of doctors. Future actions and policies will be guided by the findings and recommendations of this report, ensuring that the safety of medical professionals remains a top priority for the Karnataka government.
