In today’s healthcare system, doctors and nurses are often the first point of contact for vulnerable women and children. Thus, sensitising healthcare workers about legal safeguards related to abuse, sexual offences, child marriage, and workplace harassment is crucial. Keeping this in mind, Aakash Healthcare Super Speciality Hospital organised a Legal Awareness Seminar to create awareness about these issues among its staff members.

The programme was held under the NALSA ASHA Project in collaboration with the South West District Legal Services Authority (SW-DLSA), Dwarka Courts, Delhi. It was also part of the ongoing 100-day “Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat” campaign aimed at promoting child protection and women’s safety.

Dr. Aashish Chaudhry, Managing Director of Aakash Healthcare, in his address, said, “As a hospital, our responsibility is not limited to treating patients. We must also stand for safety, dignity and awareness."

Dr. Aashish added, "When our staff understands the law, they are better prepared to protect vulnerable patients and create a safe environment for everyone. Awareness is the first step towards prevention.”

Dr. Harpreet Kaur, Medical Superintendent, Aakash Healthcare said, "The objective was to equip hospital staff with practical knowledge of important laws so that they can respond effectively if they encounter cases involving abuse, exploitation or harassment." It included discussion on the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, and the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act, 2013, she said.

Legal experts Advocate Amita Sharma, Advocate Kajal Saini and Ms Anshulika Singh from SW-DLSA explained the provisions of these laws in simple terms and guided participants on the correct course of action in sensitive situations.

Mr Vikas Chawla, Group head HR and Ops, at  Aakash healthcare said, "The session was interactive, with staff members asking questions and discussing real-life scenarios. The discussion helped clarify their role not only as healthcare providers but also as responsible citizens who can contribute to preventing social evils."