'File FIR Within Six Hours': Health Ministry Issues Directive For Safety Of Healthcare Workers Amid Protests Over Kolkata Doctor Murder Case

The Union Health Ministry has directed that all government hospitals, whether run by the centre or state, must lodge police complaints within six hours following any incident of violence on their premises, including attacks on staff and health workers.

The ministry issued a brief notice on Friday (16 August) morning, stating that the head of the concerned institution will be held accountable if a complaint is not filed within the specified six-hour window.

"Recently it has been observed that violence has become common against doctors and other healthcare staff at government hospitals. A number of healthcare workers suffered physical violence during the course of their duty. Many were threatened or exposed to verbal aggression," the notice said, NDTV reported.

"Most of this violence is done either by patients or patients' attenders. In view of this, it is stated that in the event of any violence against any healthcare worker while on duty, the Head of the institution shall be responsible for filing an institutional FIR within a maximum of six hours," it added.

This notice comes amid nationwide protests ignited by the rape and murder of a doctor at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital.

The incident has led to medical professionals across the country going on strike demanding better protection and safer work environments.

Also Read: 'Absolute Failure Of State Machinery': Calcutta High Court Slams West Bengal Government Over Violence At R G Kar Hospital