The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has criticized the National Task Force (NTF) for its views on doctor safety. The NTF, established by the Supreme Court, opposes the need for a Central law to protect doctors. IMA president R.V. Asokan described the NTF’s approach as elitist, stating that many NTF members do not understand the dangers faced by doctors in villages and smaller cities.
The call for a Central law intensified after a tragic incident involving a trainee doctor in Kolkata. The Supreme Court formed the NTF on August 20 to address the safety and working conditions of medical professionals. Dr. Asokan maintained that a Central law would show government support for doctors. He noted that while violence against doctors is a complex issue, legislation could reassure them that the government stands behind them.
The IMA will provide its feedback on the NTF’s recommendations in the ongoing Supreme Court case. Dr. Asokan emphasized that many doctors face real threats and that the government must recognize the need for a Central law, especially for those in underserved regions.
How can the Indian Medical Association advocate for better protection laws for doctors?
Interview with Dr. R.V. Asokan, President of the Indian Medical Association (IMA)
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Asokan. Recent comments from the National Task Force (NTF) about doctor safety have been controversial. Could you elaborate on your concerns with their stance?
Dr. R.V. Asokan: Thank you for having me. The Indian Medical Association has serious concerns regarding the NTF’s position on the need for a Central law to protect doctors. Their approach feels somewhat elitist, indicating a disconnect between their experiences and the real threats faced by medical professionals, especially in villages and smaller cities. Many NTF members simply do not grasp the daily challenges and dangers that doctors in these underserved areas encounter.
Interviewer: What prompted the intensified call for a Central law for doctor safety?
Dr. R.V. Asokan: The tragic incident involving a trainee doctor in Kolkata brought the issue of doctor safety to the forefront. It was a wake-up call for many in the medical community. After the Supreme Court formed the NTF on August 20, we felt it was essential to push for legislation that explicitly supports and protects our medical professionals. A Central law would send a strong message that the government stands unwaveringly behind its physicians.
Interviewer: The NTF has suggested several measures to improve safety without creating new legislation. What do you think of these recommendations?
Dr. R.V. Asokan: While the measures proposed, such as establishing security committees and collaborating with local police, are steps in the right direction, they do not address the root problem. Violence against doctors is indeed complex, and while these strategies may help in some contexts, they fall short of providing the overarching legal and social protection that a Central law would offer. It is crucial that our government acknowledges the need for more robust protections, particularly for those working in high-risk, underserved regions.
Interviewer: How does the IMA plan to engage with the NTF’s recommendations in the ongoing Supreme Court case?
Dr. R.V. Asokan: We are actively compiling our feedback and concerns related to the NTF’s recommendations. Our intention is to ensure that the voices of doctors across the country are heard and that the unique challenges they face are understood and addressed adequately. The IMA remains committed to advocating for legislation that protects the safety and rights of medical practitioners.
Interviewer: In your view, what would a Central law accomplish for the medical community?
Dr. R.V. Asokan: A Central law would not only provide a framework for legal protection but also serve to reassure doctors that they have governmental support. It will create a safer working environment and empower healthcare professionals to perform their duties without the constant fear of violence or harassment. When doctors know that there are laws protecting them, it fosters a sense of security that ultimately benefits our entire healthcare system.
Interviewer: Thank you, Dr. Asokan, for your insights on this critical issue. We hope to see positive changes for the safety of doctors in the near future.
Dr. R.V. Asokan: Thank you for having me. We all hope for a safer and more supportive environment for our medical professionals.
The NTF suggested measures to prevent violence against medical staff. These include creating security committees in healthcare facilities, hiring trained security personnel, collaborating with local police, installing CCTV cameras, establishing a distress call system, forming a Quick Response Team, and ensuring transportation for doctors and staff at night.
