CJI Chandrachud assures protesting doctors: ‘Return to work, no adverse action will be taken’
Kolkata doctor rape and murder case: On Thursday, Chief Justice DY Chandrachud urged the doctors protesting the brutal rape and murder of a trainee doctor in Kolkata to return to their duties. He assured them that no punitive measures would be taken against those who resume work.
“Let them all return to work. We will issue a general order to ensure that no adverse actions are taken against them once they resume their duties. How can the public administrative structure function if they do not return?” Chief Justice Chandrachud stated.
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— ANI (@ANI) August 22, 2024
During the hearing, the Supreme Court was informed by the counsel representing resident doctors from AIIMS Nagpur that the doctors were being unfairly targeted for their protests regarding the Kolkata case. Additionally, the counsel for PGI Chandigarh reported that medics’ casual leaves were being deducted due to their participation in the demonstrations.
The Supreme Court responded by advising the doctors to return to work first and then address any difficulties with the court if needed.
The ongoing nationwide strike by resident doctors, now in its 11th day, has severely impacted patient services in numerous hospitals. The doctors are demanding the implementation of the Central Protection Act to ensure their safety and security.
The Supreme Court also acknowledged the issue of excessively long duty hours for resident doctors in public hospitals. The trainee doctor, who was tragically raped and murdered at RG Kar Hospital, had been working a demanding 36-hour shift before going to the seminar room to rest.
Chief Justice Chandrachud highlighted the broader issue of hierarchical dynamics in public hospitals, noting that junior doctors are vulnerable to various forms of harassment, including sexual harassment. He pointed out that the court has received numerous complaints about the unacceptability of 48 or 36-hour shifts.