The Union government declared in Parliament that a new central law for protecting healthcare professionals is unnecessary, citing existing state laws. This decision follows the tragic rape and murder of a young doctor, prompting increased calls for stronger protections. Despite current laws, advocates argue for a central framework to better address violence against medical workers.
New Delhi: Over 100 days after the horrific incident at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, the Union government clarified in Parliament on Friday that there is no need for a central law to address violence against healthcare professionals. The statement came amidst growing demands for stronger protections following the rape and murder of a young doctor in Kolkata in August, which shocked the nation.
Responding to queries raised in the Lok Sabha by MPs including Sayani Ghosh (AITC), Kuldeep Indora (Congress), K Kanimozhi (DMK), and Jai Prakash (BJP), Anupriya Patel, Minister of State for Health, emphasized the constitutional division of responsibilities.
“It is the primary responsibility of the concerned state/union territory to take note of events and eventualities for taking appropriate action to prevent violence against healthcare professionals,”
she stated, noting that “health” and “law and order” are state subjects under constitutional provisions.
Highlighting the existing laws in place, the minister explained that many states have enacted legislation to address violence against healthcare workers, primarily targeting minor offenses.
For more serious crimes, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, is deemed sufficient. “As the state laws have adequate provisions to address day-to-day minor offences and serious offences can be addressed by BNS, 2023, a separate Central law to deal with offences against healthcare professionals is not required,” she said in a written response.
In the aftermath of the RG Kar incident, the Union Health Ministry issued several recommendations to states to enhance the safety and security of healthcare professionals. Notably, all hospitals have been directed to file an institutional FIR within six hours of any violent incident involving medical professionals.
The gruesome episode at RG Kar Medical College has reignited calls for a dedicated central law to protect healthcare workers, who are increasingly vulnerable to violence and abuse. Advocates argue that despite state laws, a uniform, stringent framework could better address the growing issue.
While the Union government maintains that state and existing central laws are adequate, the debate continues as incidents of violence against healthcare professionals persist. Many feel a central law could standardize protections and strengthen accountability nationwide.
As the conversation unfolds, the healthcare community and legislators alike are closely watching for the implementation of suggested safety measures and the effectiveness of existing legal provisions.
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