In response to the recent tragic murder of a 31-year-old postgraduate trainee doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, the National Medical Commission (NMC) has issued a comprehensive advisory for medical institutions across the country. This directive, issued under the guidance of Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda, aims to ensure the safety of medical staff and students within their campus environments.
The advisory comes after the body of the female doctor was discovered in a seminar hall of the hospital, leading to public outrage and demands for a thorough investigation. Subsequently, the Calcutta High Court has ordered that the investigation into the rape and murder be transferred from the Kolkata Police to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
Highlighting a recent uptick in violence against medical professionals, the NMC’s advisory urged all medical colleges to develop and implement robust policies to ensure a secure working environment. “All medical colleges are requested to develop a policy for a safe work environment within the college and hospital campus for all the staff members, including faculty, medical students, and resident doctors,” the advisory stated. Key recommendations include adequate lighting in corridors and campuses, increased CCTV surveillance in sensitive areas, and the deployment of sufficient security personnel, both male and female, across the college and hospital premises.
The advisory also stressed the importance of prompt response to incidents of violence, urging college management to swiftly investigate such occurrences and file First Information Reports (FIRs) with local police authorities. A detailed action-taken report on violent incidents must be submitted to the NMC within 48 hours.
A post-mortem examination of the victim revealed that she suffered “genital torture,” and her thyroid cartilage was fractured, indicating strangulation and suffocation as the causes of death. The horrific incident, believed to have taken place between 3 AM and 5 AM on August 9, also left the victim with injuries to her abdomen, lips, fingers, and left leg. Authorities have arrested a civic volunteer, Sanjoy Roy, in connection with the crime.
This incident underscores the urgent need for enhanced security measures and support for healthcare professionals nationwide.
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