The tragic rape and murder of a young doctor in Kolkata has shocked the nation and garnered attention from the Supreme Court of India. Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud led a three-judge bench that addressed the case, which is currently under investigation by the CBI. This case has raised several critical issues, including the preservation of evidence, adherence to the rule of law, the safety of healthcare professionals, and the broader issue of women’s safety in the workplace. The incident has also put pressure on the ruling Trinamool Congress, particularly as women, a key constituency for Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, have expressed their outrage.

In response to the nationwide strikes by medical professionals protesting the assault, Chief Justice Chandrachud has called for doctors to return to their duties. He emphasized that the Supreme Court is actively addressing concerns about the safety of medical professionals and that the ongoing strikes are impacting patient care. “Resume Work As It Affects Patients,” CJI Chandrachud urged, acknowledging that doctors and medical staff are being given the highest level of consideration by the court.

To address these issues and enhance the safety and well-being of medical professionals, a National Task Force (NTF) has been proposed. The NTF will develop an action plan that includes the following measures:

1. Enhanced Security in Emergency Rooms: Increase security measures in emergency areas.
2. Baggage Screening: Implement screening to prevent weapons from entering medical facilities.
3. Access Restrictions: Limit access to hospital areas to authorized individuals only.
4. Crowd Management: Ensure adequate security for managing crowds in hospitals.
5. Rest Areas: Provide dedicated restrooms and gender-neutral spaces for doctors and nurses.
6. Advanced Security Systems: Install biometric and facial recognition systems in key areas.
7. Proper Lighting and CCTV: Improve lighting and install CCTV cameras throughout facilities.
8. Transport Services: Offer safe transportation for medical staff from 10 pm to 6 am.
9. Crisis Workshops: Conduct workshops to help staff handle grief and crises.
10. Quarterly Safety Audits: Perform regular audits of institutional safety measures.
11. Police Presence: Establish a police force appropriate to the facility’s size and patient volume.
12. POSH Act Compliance: Ensure compliance with the POSH Act by setting up Internal Complaint Committees (ICCs) in medical establishments.
13. Emergency Helpline: Provide a dedicated helpline for medical professionals in case of emergencies.

These steps aim to create a safer working environment for medical professionals and address the broader issue of workplace safety and gender-based violence.