On Tuesday, the Delhi High Court instructed the Union Government to initiate measures aimed at enhancing the infrastructure of the hospitals under its administration in the national capital.

Acting Chief Justice Manmohan and Justice Mini Pushkarna, comprising a division bench, additionally mandated the Delhi Government to submit an action taken report. This report should outline whether the suggestions proposed by the expert committee, formed to elevate operational norms and medical procedures in government hospitals, are actively being put into practice.

During the proceedings, the court was addressing a suo motu Public Interest Litigation (PIL) initiated back in 2017. This litigation focuses on the critical matter of ensuring the safety and security of medical specialists within public hospitals, highlighting the prevalent issue of violence against them. It also underscores the concerning scarcity of sufficient experts available to deliver healthcare services within these hospitals.

In the course of the hearing, Senior Advocate Siddharth Aggarwal, acting as the Amicus Curiae, emphasized that the concern extends beyond solely safeguarding doctors. He suggested that a comprehensive "360-degree view" approach is necessary to address the entirety of the healthcare delivery system, particularly within government hospitals.

The bench had drawn attention to several concerns, such as the inadequate security provisions for doctors and the disproportionate growth of medical experts within hospitals in contrast to the increasing number of patients. This mismatch resulted in delays and heightened the risk of violence within healthcare facilities.

Case Title: COURT ON ITS OWN MOTION V/s UNION OF INDIA & ORS