punjab-tightens-state-doctors-security-after-kolkata-case

After extending support to the ongoing protests spurred by the rape-murder of a doctor in Kolkata, the Bhagwant Mann-led government of Punjab ensures the protection of its doctors, especially female health staff, said state's health minister Balbir Singh on Monday, issuing directives to conduct security audit at all the state health institutes.  

 

The directions were given to health department officials to constitute District Health Boards which will conduct security audits at all the state health institutes to ensure the safety of medical professionals. 

 

According to an official statement, Singh here on Monday evening held a meeting with representatives of the Indian Medical Association (IMA), Punjab Civil Medical Services (PCMS) Association, Resident Doctors Association, and Medical and Dental Teachers Association. 

 

Singh also asked the heads of the government health institutes to implement the Standard Operating Procedures (SoPs) relating to security and infrastructure within 48 hours at their institutes. There should be no dark spots and female medical professionals on night shift must be accompanied by two male staff whenever she has to go to see patients to distant wards, said the minister.  

 

The Punjab minister further demanded Rs 10 crore ex-gratia for the deceased doctor's parents, speedy justice, and exemplary punishment for culprits, urging the union government to enact a stringent central law to prevent assaults on medical professionals nationwide. 

 

Singh assures agitating doctors he will write to the Union Health Minister, as a postgraduate trainee doctor was allegedly raped and murdered on duty in Kolkata, sparking countrywide protests. 

 

The PCMS Association submits a memorandum to the state government, demanding improved security at public healthcare centers, presenting a detailed demand charter for safe working conditions. 

 

Dr Akhil Sarin, PCMS Association President, meets Singh and other senior officials, outlining measures to ensure safe working conditions at public healthcare facilities.