Yesterday(on18th March),The Kerala High Court upheld a protocol mandating that only gynaecologists conduct examinations of sexual assault survivors, dismissing a petition filed by government hospital gynaecologists. The decision was made in response to a petition challenging the protocol’s requirement, which mandates only gynaecologists to conduct examinations on survivors of sexual offences. The petitioners argued that this requirement contradicts existing laws and international guidelines and called for a modification of the protocol to extend the responsibility of medical examinations to all registered medical practitioners. Despite their petition being dismissed, the court granted the petitioner-gynaecologists the liberty to approach the appropriate State authorities with their grievances.
The Kerala High Court is challenged Today by gynaecologists over the mandate that only women can examine sexual assault survivors, contending it contradicts legal provisions and burdens specialists while causing delays. The case highlights the need for a balanced approach to medical examinations and may have far-reaching implications. The judge is open to addressing any issues.
