The apex court's suo moto congisance of Kolkata rape case could lead to stronger security measures in workplaces

The Kolkata rape and murder case has shaken the nation, sparking widespread outrage and a call to end such horrific crimes. While similar cases in the past, like the Ranga Billa case in the 1970s and the Nirbhaya case in 2012, also provoked national anger, real change has been limited, with crimes against women continuing sporadically. The recent assault and murder of a resident doctor in Kolkata serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing vulnerability women face in the workplace. The Supreme Court of India has taken suo motu cognisance of the Kolkata doctor rape-murder incident. A three-judge bench presided by Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud will hear the matter on August 20, 2024. Earlier, the Calcutta High Court expressed displeasure over the handling of the case by the State Government. The incident took place at  R G Kar Medical College in Kolkata. The case has been transferred to the CBI. The Supreme Court’s decision to take up this case underscores a growing concern about the safety of women in public spaces, including professional environments. The matter, while primarily focusing on doctors' safety, also opens a window to address the broader context of women's safety across the country.

In a country where women’s safety continues to be a major societal concern, the Supreme Court's intervention in the Kolkata case regarding the safety of doctors brings to light a parallel issue— the precarious conditions under which healthcare workers, especially women, operate. While India grapples with various cases of violence against women, the healthcare sector has seen its share of attacks on women professionals, prompting national attention and legal action. India’s struggle with women’s safety is long-standing and complex. High-profile cases of sexual violence, harassment, and workplace discrimination have repeatedly sparked public outrage. Despite legal reforms and awareness campaigns, incidents of violence against women remain alarmingly high. Public spaces, including hospitals, which should be places of care, have become dangerous for many women, underscoring the systemic nature of the problem. The healthcare sector is particularly concerning because female doctors and nurses not only face violence from patients’ families but also internal issues such as sexual harassment from colleagues and superiors. This dual threat makes their professional life increasingly challenging and unsafe. With the Supreme Court stepping in, it is hoped that this case will lead to more robust security protocols in hospitals and other public institutions. As the Supreme Court examines the Kolkata case, there is hope that this will lead to a more comprehensive approach to women’s safety in India. The focus should not just be on doctors but also on broader societal reforms that ensure women can work, travel, and live without fear of violence or discrimination. If the court’s ruling leads to enhanced safety measures for doctors, it could set a precedent for other professions as well, where women face similar threats.