Rising Attacks on Medical Staff in New Delhi

Increase in Violence Against Healthcare Workers

New Delhi has witnessed a concerning increase in attacks on doctors and medical staff over the past five years. Official data presented in the Delhi Assembly indicates that between 2021 and 2025, there were a total of 149 reported incidents of violence and assault occurring in both government and private hospitals.

Incident Trends Over the Years

The data highlights that 2024 recorded the highest number of incidents with 49 cases, closely followed by 48 incidents in 2025. In 2023, there were 24 reported cases, while both 2021 and 2022 recorded the lowest figures, with 14 incidents each. This information was shared by the Delhi Government during the Winter Session of the Assembly.

Measures Taken by the Government

In response to these alarming trends, hospital administrations and the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) have lodged police complaints, resulting in institutional FIRs in 33 cases, as reported by the news agency PTI. The government has implemented several measures to enhance the safety of healthcare professionals. These measures include:

– Formation of security committees in hospitals
– Deployment of security personnel
– Installation of CCTV cameras
– Presence of Delhi Police officers in emergency departments

Additionally, helpline numbers have been established to address such incidents, and information regarding relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita has been posted in various locations within hospital premises. Regular police patrolling in healthcare facilities has also been assured.

Current Proposals and Legislative Actions

Despite these efforts, the government has clarified that there are currently no plans to establish a special cell aimed at enforcing stricter measures against offenders or expediting justice for cases of violence against healthcare workers.

In light of ongoing concerns, Medic Helpline reported that MP Fauzia Khan has recently introduced a private member’s bill in the Rajya Sabha, titled The Central Protection of Healthcare Workers and Medical Establishments from Violence Bill, 2025. This bill proposes stringent penalties for offenses, including potential imprisonment ranging from six months to ten years, and fines that could reach up to ₹10 lakh, depending on the severity of the violence.