Following the rape and murder of a doctor at a Kolkata hospital where she worked, the Union Health Ministry has instructed all central government hospitals and medical colleges to strengthen security measures to ensure a safe environment for healthcare professionals.
The ministry has directed hospitals to display boards highlighting the legal penalties under relevant state laws, install high-resolution CCTV cameras, set up a control room for quick emergency responses, and closely monitor entry and exit points to prevent violence against doctors.
‘Hospitals must deploy an adequate number of trained security guards for proper monitoring, patrolling, and surveillance of the premises. Only one or two attendants should be allowed with a patient at any time, including during visiting hours, managed through an attendant pass system,’ the ministry stated.
To further enhance safety, the ministry stressed the importance of well-lit areas within hospital campuses, especially in places where female healthcare staff are on duty, as well as in parking lots and entryways. Hospitals are also encouraged to develop comprehensive emergency response plans, conduct regular mock drills, and train staff to identify and respond to security threats.
The ministry also directed hospital administrations to coordinate closely with local police and emergency services to ensure a unified response to incidents.
‘Hospitals should provide well-secured duty rooms with basic amenities for female healthcare professionals. Night shifts should involve more than one female staff member, who should be escorted within the premises and provided with secure transport when needed,’ the statement added.
The Kolkata incident, which has triggered a nationwide outcry, is being compared to the 2012 Delhi gang rape and murder that led to stricter laws against sexual assault in India.
Last week, citing recent incidents of violence, B. Srinivas, Secretary of the National Medical Commission (NMC), urged all medical colleges to develop policies ensuring a safe workplace environment for their staff, including faculty, students, and resident doctors.”
