New Delhi, 11 May 2025: In a recent development, the Union Health Ministry has reiterated its decision not to enact a separate central law to protect healthcare professionals from violence. This information was disclosed in response to a Right to Information (RTI) application filed by Kerala-based activist and ophthalmologist Dr. K.V. Babu. Dr. Babu sought updates on the status of the draft legislation and related communications between various government departments.
The ministry’s reply stated that a draft titled “The Healthcare Services Personnel and Clinical Establishments (Prohibition of Violence and Damage to Property) Bill, 2019” was prepared and circulated for consultations. However, it was later decided not to proceed with enacting a separate legislation for prohibiting violence against doctors and other healthcare professionals. Furthermore, the ministry declined to provide additional information requested, citing exemptions under Section 8(1)(a) of the RTI Act, 2005.
This stance has been met with disappointment from the medical community. Dr. Babu expressed concern over the government’s lack of sensitivity towards the safety of healthcare workers, especially in light of recent incidents of violence against doctors. He highlighted that despite previous assurances and nationwide protests, there has been no significant progress on this front.
The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has also voiced its dissatisfaction. IMA National President Dr. R.V. Asokan emphasized the necessity of a central act to ensure uniform protection for healthcare workers across all states. He mentioned that the IMA has submitted its justification for the law to the National Task Force and plans to file an interlocutory application in the Supreme Court to press for the enactment of the legislation.
Dr. Dhruv Chauhan, National Council Coordinator of the IMA-Junior Doctors Network, remarked that the government’s response reflects a disregard for the safety and well-being of healthcare professionals. He noted that attacks on medical personnel continue unabated, leading to a growing sense of insecurity within the community.
The issue gained renewed attention following the tragic incident on August 9, where a woman trainee doctor was brutally raped and murdered in a state-run hospital in Kolkata. In response, the IMA called for a nationwide 24-hour shutdown of non-essential services on August 17 to protest the incident and demand stronger protective measures for healthcare workers.
Despite these efforts, the government’s position remains unchanged, leaving the medical fraternity to continue its advocacy for a central law that would provide comprehensive protection against violence for all healthcare professionals.
