Kolkata rape-murder case: Supreme Court establishes National Task Force to ensure doctors' safety
New Delhi [India], August 20 : On Tuesday, the Supreme Court established a 10-member National Task Force to propose measures for preventing violence and ensuring safe working conditions for medical professionals.
The task force includes Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, among others.
Following the rape and murder of a junior doctor in Kolkata, which triggered nationwide protests, the Supreme Court took suo motu action on the case. The court has instructed the task force to present an interim report within three weeks and a final report within two months.
The court emphasized that the Task Force should also develop an action plan to prevent gender-based violence and provide a respectful working environment for interns, residents, and non-resident doctors.
Additionally, the Supreme Court directed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to submit a status report on the investigation into the rape case. It also requested the West Bengal government to provide a status report on the mob attack incident at RG Kar hospital on August 15.
During the hearing, Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud commented, "The Kolkata incident highlights safety concerns for doctors across the country."
The Chief Justice expressed concern over the widespread publication of the Kolkata rape victim's name, photo, and video clip, noting that such disclosures are prohibited by law.
The court also questioned the actions of the Kolkata Police on the day of the murder, observing that while the crime was detected early in the morning, no FIR was filed.
Senior advocate Kapil Sibal contested this, stating that an unnatural death case was already registered.
The Supreme Court reiterated that there was no FIR indicating a clear case of murder until late at night.
The Chief Justice announced the formation of a national task force to recommend safety protocols for both senior and junior doctors nationwide.
The FAIMA Doctors Association welcomed the Supreme Court's decision to form the National Task Force and requested the inclusion of representatives from interns, resident doctors, and faculty members, alongside government officials.
The Supreme Court has scheduled the next hearing for August 22.
The court advised the West Bengal state government to maintain restraint regarding peaceful protests and warned against the use of state power against such demonstrations.
The Supreme Court remarked that with increasing female participation in the workforce, the country cannot wait for another incident of rape to drive change.
The Chief Justice noted that current laws do not adequately address institutional safety standards for doctors and medical workers.