The Supreme Court of India will hear tomorrow, September 30, the suo moto case regarding the rape and murder of a junior doctor at R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata. The case has drawn attention to the safety of medical professionals across the country, raising concerns about the working conditions for doctors, especially women.
Key Details of the Incident
The Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, will resume its hearing after postponing the case on September 27 at the request of the West Bengal government. The court took suo moto cognisance of the horrific incident, which involved the rape and murder of a junior doctor. The case has triggered serious discussions about the safety of healthcare workers, particularly those working at night.
Supreme Court’s Response to the Tragedy
The Supreme Court was alarmed when its attention was drawn to a government order in West Bengal that prohibited women doctors from working night shifts due to safety concerns. After the court’s intervention, the West Bengal government assured that the order would not be enforced, as it contradicted the constitutional principle of gender equality.
Formation of National Task Force for Doctor Safety
Recognizing the wider issue of doctor safety in India, the Supreme Court has ordered the formation of a National Task Force (NTF). The NTF will develop recommendations to ensure better security measures for medical professionals, underlining that doctor safety is of “highest national concern.”
National Impact of the Case
This case has raised a significant national concern regarding the safety of doctors, especially those working in night shifts. The Supreme Court’s suo moto intervention highlights the need for systemic reforms to protect healthcare workers in India, ensuring they can work without fear or threat.
| Event | Date | Key Focus |
| Suo Moto Hearing | September 30, 2024 | Doctor safety, systemic reforms |
| West Bengal Govt Order | Postponed Hearing | Gender equality concerns |
| National Task Force Formation | Ongoing | Doctor protection and safety reforms |
Summary of the Key Events
- Supreme Court: Took suo moto cognisance of the rape and murder of a junior doctor in Kolkata.
- Gender Equality: Court intervened in the West Bengal government order that banned night shifts for women doctors.
- National Task Force: Ordered by the court to improve the safety of doctors across India.
National Impact: Highlights the need for better security measures for healthcare professionals.
Key Summary
- Supreme Court will hear the suo moto case on the junior doctor’s rape and murder on September 30.
- National Task Force to be formed for the safety of doctors across India.
- The West Bengal government assured that gender equality would be upheld.
- The case highlights broader issues regarding the safety of medical professionals in India.
Read- 12 Suo Moto Cases Noticed from Media Reports, of 46 [1990-2021]
Read Related Topics
- West Bengal Assembly Passes Anti-Rape ‘Aparajita’ Bill
- West Bengal to Set Up 5 POCSO Fast-Track Special Courts
Also Read Latest Current Affairs 2024
The Supreme Court took suo moto cognisance of the rape and murder of a junior doctor in Kolkata, addressing concerns over doctor safety.
The court intervened because the West Bengal government issued an order banning night shifts for women doctors, raising gender equality concerns.
The NTF was ordered by the Supreme Court to suggest measures for improving the safety of doctors across India.
This case has raised national concerns about doctor safety and working conditions, leading to systemic reforms.
The case highlighted gender equality issues when the West Bengal government tried to restrict night shifts for women doctors.