The safety crisis among female healthcare professionals in India: addressing the epidemic of sexual violence

In India, Gender-Based Violence (GBV) continues to be a significant issue affecting women across all sectors, including healthcare. This violence is driven mainly by the societal norms of patriarchy as well as systematic inequalities that have numerous and devastating effects on the social life of women, leading to psychological trauma, poorer health outcomes in underserved communities, and loss of trust in the healthcare system. There have been several legal frameworks, such as the Protection Human Rights Act, the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, and the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act. Despite these initiatives, gaps still exist, mainly in enforcing and reducing the cultural stigmas contributing to the ongoing vulnerability of female healthcare professionals. By strengthening security measures and educating the public on gender sensitivity while empowering female healthcare workers, GBV may be mitigated. This paper highlights the urgency for a comprehensive and intensive approach towards ensuring a safer environment for women in healthcare to work and thrive in India. Cultural shifts, legal enforcement, and continuous advocacy efforts are also required.