Supreme Court Assures No Adverse Action Against Doctors Amid Nationwide Protests

On Thursday, the Supreme Court of India urged medical professionals across the country to resume their duties, promising that authorities will not impose any punitive actions on those who participated in protests. The demonstrations followed a tragic incident at Kolkata’s R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital, where a junior doctor was raped and murdered earlier this month.

Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, leading a bench with Justices JB Padriwala and Manoj Misra, addressed the protesting doctors, emphasizing the need for them to return to work. The Court assured that no adverse actions would follow their return.

“Doctors should come back to their duties. We guarantee that no punitive measures against them once they resume work,” state the Bench. They also stressed the importance of continuing hospital services for patients who have long-standing appointments and noted that the healthcare system cannot function without the full participation of medical professionals.

During the hearing on the suo motu case titled “Alleged Rape and Murder Incident of a Trainee Doctor in R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital, Kolkata, and Related Issues,” the Court learned that hospitals across the country had taken various disciplinary actions against protesting doctors, including marking them on leave and deducting casual leave days.

Supreme Court Urged

In an earlier session on Tuesday, the Supreme Court had urged doctors to return to work without delay. The Court reassured the medical community that their concerns are receiving high priority and close attention.

The Court also directed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to submit a status report on the investigation within two days and asked the state government to report on the vandalism incidents that occurred within the hospital.

In response to the Court’s directive, the Centre announced the formation of a National Task Force (NTF) on Wednesday. Chaired by the Union Cabinet Secretary, the NTF will develop recommendations to improve the safety, working conditions, and overall well-being of medical professionals. The Task Force must submit an interim report within three weeks and a final report within two months.