The Ministry of Health & Family Welfare has taken a significant step to protect doctors and healthcare staff in government hospitals from increasing violence. Recently, it has been observed that acts of violence against these healthcare workers have become alarmingly common. Many doctors, nurses, and other health staff face physical assaults while performing their duties. In addition to physical violence, they are often subjected to threats and verbal abuse. This violence typically comes from patients or their attendants.
In response to this disturbing trend, the Ministry has issued a clear directive. According to the new guideline, if any healthcare worker is subjected to violence while on duty, the head of the institution where the incident occurred will be held responsible for taking swift action. Specifically, the head of the institution must ensure that a formal complaint, FIR, is filed with the police within a maximum of six hours after the incident.
This measure is aimed at ensuring the safety and security of healthcare workers, who are vital to the functioning of our healthcare system. By making it mandatory to file FIRs quickly, the Ministry hopes to deter potential aggressors and provide a safer working environment for those dedicated to saving lives. This decision underscores the government’s commitment to protecting its healthcare professionals from harm and ensuring that justice is served in cases of violence against them.