Kolkata Doctor Case Hearing: CJI Chandrachud’s Remarks
The Supreme Court is currently hearing the case of the rape and murder of a woman doctor in Kolkata. In response to the incident, doctors and health workers in government hospitals have called for a strike. The Supreme Court has urged these doctors and employees to return to work and warned that legal action will be taken if they do not resume their duties immediately. Chief Justice DY Chandrachud shared his personal experience with government hospitals and commended the dedication of the doctors.
Chief Justice DY Chandrachud stated, “My relatives were admitted to a government hospital for treatment. I had to sleep on the hospital floor to stay with them. We know that doctors in government hospitals work around the clock. However, now it is essential for doctors to resume their duties. Poor patients who rely on government services cannot be left in such a situation.” He also emphasized the need for empathy from those seeking treatment in government hospitals and warned that action would be taken if doctors did not return to work.
The Supreme Court bench instructed health workers to return to their duties immediately to avoid legal consequences. Chief Justice DY Chandrachud stressed that if doctors do not return to work, the country’s health system could collapse. While acknowledging the doctors’ concerns, he assured that no action would be taken against those who resumed work promptly, but legal action would follow otherwise.
A bench comprising Justice Pardiwala and Justice Manoj Mishra indicated that if doctors return to work, their absence will not be recorded. However, if they fail to return, action will be taken as per the law. They advised doctors to appear at work first, and if any issues arise, they could approach the Supreme Court for assistance.
Establishment of Task Force by the Supreme Court
The rape and subsequent gruesome murder of a resident doctor at Kar Medical College in Kolkata created a nationwide stir. On August 18, the Supreme Court took cognizance of the matter and began hearings on August 20. Chief Justice DY Chandrachud and Justice JB Pardiwala, along with Justice Manoj Mishra, are overseeing the case.
During the first day of hearings, Chief Justice Chandrachud ordered the formation of a 9-member National Task Force to develop procedures for workplace safety for doctors. This task force, comprising doctors from various backgrounds, will suggest practices to ensure workplace safety across India and to protect young and mid-career doctors in their work environments, as stated by Chandrachud.
