DECRIMINALISING MEDICAL NEGLIGENCE
Issue:
- In April 2023, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) expressed concern over an increasing number of criminal cases for medical negligence.
- IMA deems criminal prosecution of doctors for negligence as “irrelevant” and demands exemption, citing it as a form of harassment.
About the Debate:
- Home minister announced that under the new Criminal Code Bill, doctors are exempted from criminal prosecution in cases of death due to negligence.
- Critics, including bioethicists and patient advocacy groups, argue that a
blanket exemption might lead to increased medical malpractice, particularly impacting marginalized populations.
About Indian Medical Association:
- The Indian Medical Association (IMA) is a voluntary organization of physicians in India.
- Initially founded in 1928 as the All India Medical Association, it underwent a name change to the Indian Medical Association in 1930.
- The IMA operates as a society registered under The Societies Act of India.