SC-Appointed Task Force Receives Hundreds of Suggestions on Enhancing Safety for Healthcare Workers

The NTF has decided to conduct broader consultations with stakeholders on Wednesday to identify priority concerns and draft a robust framework for implementation.

The Supreme Court-appointed National Task Force (NTF), which convened for the first time on Tuesday, has received an extensive range of suggestions aimed at improving the safety and security of doctors and healthcare professionals.

The task force, established to create a comprehensive protocol following the recent surge in violence against medical personnel, received input from various stakeholders, including resident doctor associations.

The meeting, chaired by the Cabinet Secretary, featured in-depth discussions on multiple issues surrounding healthcare safety. It was attended by high-ranking officials, including the Union Home Secretary and the Union Health Secretary.

In light of the diverse opinions presented, the NTF has decided to conduct broader consultations with stakeholders on Wednesday to identify priority concerns and draft a robust framework for implementation.

Officials disclosed that states have been requested to furnish details about the existing security measures in place at medical institutions.

Reportedly, a Google Sheet has been circulated to collect this data, which will be reviewed in a virtual meeting with state chief secretaries and Directors General of Police (DGPs) on Wednesday. The meeting will be co-chaired by the Union Home Secretary and the Union Health Secretary.

In response to the overwhelming volume of suggestions—reported to be between 300 and 400—received directly by NTF members, the task force plans to engage further with key stakeholders.

These include the Indian Medical Association, which represents over 400,000 members, and various resident doctor associations, to ensure a comprehensive approach to the issues at hand.

Moreover, the Ministry of Health has launched a national portal to facilitate the submission of suggestions aimed at enhancing the safety, working conditions, and overall well-being of medical professionals.

The 10-member NTF will consider these submissions before finalizing its recommendations.

The establishment of the NTF follows nationwide protests led by resident doctors, ignited by the heinous rape and murder of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata.

In response, FAIMA, a prominent resident doctors' association, has called on all related associations to contribute to the discussions to ensure that the voices of healthcare professionals are fully represented.

“States have been requested to provide information on current security measures in medical institutions, with a focus on implementing immediate improvements,” the FAIMA statement said.

The health ministry issued an office memorandum last Wednesday detailing the terms of reference for the NTF.

Additionally, the Apex Court has mandated the task force to develop an action plan in two critical areas: preventing violence, including gender-based violence, against medical professionals and ensuring safe working conditions, as well as the prevention of sexual violence against healthcare workers.