Supporting the Idea for Ensuring Workplace Safety for All: A Gender-Inclusive Approach

Dear Editor-in-Chief, Apropos your article in the editorial of the JIAOMR, July–September 2024,[1] I would first like to express my gratitude for raising a sensitive issue that has again surfaced out after the horrific incidence which took place at R. G. Kar College, Kolkata.[2] The questions raised by you are very pertinent and reckon the sentiment of the entire nation. Though initially the protest was staged by the doctors of R. G. Kar, demanding for an authentic probe, soon it became a nationwide protest. Lately, there were visuals of even rickshaw pullers wearing black bands protesting and showing solidarity for the cause. So, the concern stated in your article, Was the victim only a doctor? Was not the victim a part of the society? Has been finally answered by the public of Calcutta.[3] The protesters not only demanded for justice but also a safe working environment for the doctors. So, your suggestion of including psychological safety, harassment prevention, and equal opportunities is vital to ensure women safety. Indra Nooyi, the former CEO of PepsiCo, clearly enunciates “Women can’t have it all,” as she enlists the limitations a woman faces as she juggles to maintain a work–life balance.[4] This can take a serious toll on either her career graph, regardless of her competencies, or her family life. Though MNCs are taking cognizance of the same, it is a rather neglected topic in the healthcare sector of our country. The Calcutta incidence also brought to light the infrastructural inadequacies that a woman endures while on duty in the health sector. It was appalling to know the state of food services, changing rooms, and toilets in a government setup. Though policies have been made, training is being imparted, but the real game changer shall be encouraging an open dialogue for both the genders, starting right from the undergraduate level, as that is where the sensitization has to begin from. The concept of bare your thoughts, so you don’t bear humiliation, has to be instilled.[5] This shall surely ensure a safe and secure nation. Financial support and sponsorship Nil. Conflicts of interest There are no conflicts of interest.