Karnataka to Establish Task Force for Protecting Doctors Amid Controversy Over Kolkata Rape

Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao has announced the formation of a task force to provide a report on safety measures for doctors in the state. The minister held a meeting at Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru with medical organizations and health department officials, emphasizing the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of women working in the medical sector. The task force is responsible for providing a report within a month on measures, including the implementation of laws, to safeguard doctors. Senior officials from medical organizations and the health department will be part of the task force.

The recent incident in Kolkata has drawn national attention to the insecurity and protection of women in the medical field, where over 50% of workers are women, making it difficult for them to work in an atmosphere of fear. Discussions at the meeting focused on the safety of doctors and paramedical staff on duty, with suggestions made to enhance security and take precautionary measures. An amendment has been introduced to provide a punishment of 3-7 years for those who assault doctors, and doctors have suggested raising public awareness about these laws. They also recommended installing CCTV cameras in hospitals, providing wristbands, panic buttons, conducting regular inspections in coordination with the police department, and fast-tracking the resolution of cases.

As a response, a task force has been formed to provide a report on the necessary safety measures for doctors, with future actions to be based on this report.