National Task Force Convenes to Tackle Safety of Medical Professionals

The National Task Force, established by the Supreme Court following the rape and murder of a trainee doctor in Kolkata, held its first meeting on August 27. The task force aims to ensure the safety of medical professionals and will submit an interim report within three weeks and a final report in two months.

The National Task Force, set up by the Supreme Court after the tragic rape and murder of a trainee doctor in Kolkata, convened for its first meeting on August 27, according to official sources. All NTF members were expected to be in attendance.

Dr Saumitra Rawat, a task force member, stated that the Supreme Court has asked for an interim report within three weeks and a final report within two months. Dr Rawat, Chairman and Head of the Institute of Surgical Gastroenterology at SGRH, outlined the focus areas: violence prevention against medical professionals and the development of a national protocol for their safe and dignified working conditions.

An office memorandum from the Union Health Ministry revealed that the 14-member NTF is composed of both ex-officio members and medical experts. The task force includes high-ranking officials such as the Cabinet Secretary of India, the Home Secretary, and the Chairperson of the National Medical Commission, among others.

(With inputs from agencies.)