The Telangana Junior Doctors’ Association (T-JUDA) and female representatives from various medical institutions in Hyderabad, including Gandhi Hospital, Osmania Hospital, NIMS, ESIC, and Osmania Dental College, recently met with N Sharadha, the chairperson of the State Women’s Commission. During the meeting, they discussed the challenges and issues faced by resident doctors and other medical professionals at their workplaces.
The doctors highlighted major concerns about safety and security, particularly for women healthcare workers. They reported that the chairperson responded positively and assured them that she would convey their concerns to the State government in an effort to resolve these issues.
The doctors emphasized the need for safer working conditions for women in government hospitals, medical colleges, hostels, and other related facilities. They requested specific measures, such as designated resting rooms equipped with toilets and drinking water for women. They also suggested that both female and male police constables should be on duty during night hours to ensure safety.
Additionally, the doctors called for comprehensive CCTV coverage throughout the campuses, with continuous monitoring around the clock. They proposed the development of a special mobile app with an alarm feature, which should be made mandatory for all working women. The app would be connected directly to local police stations or control rooms to provide immediate assistance in case of emergencies.
The doctors also recommended that security checks, including breathalyser tests, be conducted at medical institutions by state-funded police or centrally funded forces like CRPF/CISF, rather than relying on outsourced personnel. They stressed the importance of having clear accountability for any incidents that occur at the workplace, suggesting that the Health Minister or Health Secretary should be held responsible.
The group further proposed that all organizations establish committees to address and resolve any form of abuse or harassment in the workplace. They called for a district-wide sensitization program on safety issues, which would be conducted across all government establishments, with private organizations encouraged to participate as well. Additionally, they recommended implementing an access control system to screen all attendants entering hospitals.
Finally, the doctors suggested setting a deadline for the committee’s work, with participation from JUDA members. They also proposed that judicial magistrates conduct unannounced field visits to assess conditions. To enhance safety, they encouraged organizations to create work schedules that ensure women work in pairs or teams, with each member staying aware of the others’ movements, especially during night shifts.
