The recent assault on medics underscores the urgent need for legal protections and enhanced security measures to ensure their safety

The recent barbaric act of violence, rape, and murder against a resident lady doctor in Kolkata has sent shockwaves across the nation. This incident, coupled with the growing number of attacks on medical professionals, calls for an urgent need for a safe operating environment for those who dedicate their lives to saving others.

The entire country is deeply saddened by these events, and there is a collective call for the government and law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety and security of healthcare workers. This is not just about protecting individuals; it is about safeguarding the sanctity of a profession that stands at the forefront of human survival.Healthcare professionals work tirelessly, often under immense pressure, to deliver care and save lives. Yet, reports of doctors being manhandled, threatened, and even killed are, unfortunately, not uncommon.  

Doctors are taught to prioritize the ABCs—Airway, Breathing, and Circulation—when a patient is in their care. Their primary focus is always on saving lives, regardless of the circumstances. However, when medical professionals are themselves under threat, their ability to perform these critical tasks is compromised. The environment in which they operate must be one of safety and respect, allowing them to carry out their duties without fear of violence.

The issue of violence against healthcare workers is not unique to India; it is a global problem. However, many countries have implemented robust measures to protect their medical professionals, setting examples that India could follow. For instance, in the United Kingdom, the National Health Service (NHS) has a zero-tolerance policy towards violence against its staff. This policy is supported by a dedicated security team that works closely with law enforcement to ensure that any incidents are dealt with swiftly and effectively. Additionally, the NHS has implemented a comprehensive reporting system that allows healthcare workers to report any form of abuse or violence, ensuring that these incidents are documented and addressed.In the United States, several states have enacted laws that classify assaults on healthcare workers as felonies, carrying heavier penalties than those for assaults on other individuals.

This legal framework acts as a strong deterrent against violence, sending a clear message that attacks on medical professionals will not be tolerated. In Australia, hospitals have introduced a range of safety measures, including the use of security personnel, panic buttons in consultation rooms, and mandatory training for staff on how to de-escalate potentially violent situations. India must urgently adopt similar measures to protect its healthcare workers. The government and relevant authorities need to implement stringent actions that will create a safer environment for doctors and other medical professionals.

First and foremost, the government should enact laws that classify any form of violence against healthcare professionals as a serious criminal offence, with severe penalties for those found guilty. This legal framework should be supported by swift and decisive action from law enforcement agencies to ensure that justice is served promptly.In addition to legal protections, hospitals, especially those in high-risk areas, should be equipped with comprehensive security measures. These could include the deployment of trained security personnel, the installation of panic buttons, surveillance cameras, and secure entry points to prevent unauthorized access. Such measures would go a long way in deterring potential threats and ensuring that medical professionals can work without fear. Moreover, healthcare workers should receive mandatory training on how to handle violent situations.

This training should cover de-escalation techniques, self-defence, and the proper use of security measures available to them.The safety and security of healthcare professionals are non-negotiable. Those who dedicate their lives to saving others deserve to work in an environment free from fear and violence. The government, law enforcement agencies, and society at large must come together to ensure that the medical fraternity is protected and respected. It is time to take decisive action to safeguard those who save lives, ensuring that healthcare professionals can continue their noble work without fear.

(The author is a senior journalist. Views expressed are personal)