Amid Controversy Over Kolkata Rape, Karnataka to Establish Task Force for Doctor Safety

Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao has announced the formation of a task force to provide a report on the safety measures to be taken for doctors in the state. The minister emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of women in the medical sector, where more than 50 percent of the workforce is female. The task force, composed of senior officials from medical organizations and the health department, will be responsible for providing the report within a month. The announcement came after a meeting at Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru, where the minister held discussions with office bearers of medical organizations and health department officials.

The recent incident in Kolkata, which drew national attention, highlighted the importance of addressing the insecurity and protection of women in the medical field. During the meeting, suggestions were made to enhance security and take precautionary measures for the safety of doctors and paramedical staff on duty. Minister Rao mentioned that there are existing laws in place to protect doctors and an amendment has been introduced to further strengthen these laws, providing for a punishment of 3-7 years for those who assault doctors. Additionally, doctors suggested raising public awareness about these laws and recommended measures such as installing CCTV cameras in hospitals, providing wristbands and panic buttons, conducting regular inspections in coordination with the police department, and fast-tracking the resolution of cases.

In response to these suggestions, Minister Rao announced the decision to form a task force to provide a report on the necessary measures for the safety of doctors. Future actions will be based on the findings of this report.