Question : SAFE WORKING ENVIRONMENT FOR FEMALE HEALTH WORKERS

(a) whether the condition of female health care workers in the country is very poor and they are also reportedly subjected to discrimination and violence at their workplace;

(b) if so, the details thereof and the reaction of the Government thereto;

(c) whether the Association of Nurses and certain women organisations staged a dharna recently demanding safe working environment for female health workers in the country; and

(d) if so, the details thereof and the remedial measures being taken by the Government to alleviate the problems of nurses and female health workers in the country?

THE MINISTER OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE (DR. HARSH VARDHAN)

(a) & (b): Recently, a representation signed by representatives of various organisations has been received in the Ministry seeking justice in sexual harassment cases involving women healthcare workers and to constitute Vishakha Committees in all healthcare institutions all over the country. The same has been forwarded to the States concerned for appropriate action.

(c): News of dharna was reported in certain sections of Media.

(d): Health being a state subject, the matter regarding working conditions of Nursing staff comes under the purview of the State Government in which the hospitals are located.