According to the news reports, the incident took place when the patient was brought to the emergency department for treatment. It is alleged that a policeman stationed outside the emergency ward failed to intervene despite hearing the commotion. The intern reportedly approached the police later to report the incident, after which authorities took action. No arrests have been made so far.
The incident has sparked outrage among the hospital staff and students, who questioned how such an assault could occur even in the presence of police personnel. On Wednesday, medical students staged a protest in front of the principal’s office, demanding enhanced security measures for doctors and nurses.
One of the protesters said, “One of our interns on duty was harassed and molested due to police inaction and security negligence. Doctors and health workers are working day after day, risking their lives. That is why we have protested, demanding justice from the authorities. We have demanded proper security,” reports IANS.
Also Read:Ward boy arrested for alleged sexual harassment at Burdwan Hospital
This incident adds to a growing series of assaults on female healthcare professionals in state-run hospitals across West Bengal in recent weeks. While some culprits in previous cases were arrested, the response in this instance has been criticised for delayed action. “We have received a complaint regarding the incident. We are looking into it,” said a senior Kolkata Police officer. Medical Dialogues had recently reported that the Burdwan police arrested a war boy at the state-run Medical College Hospital for allegedly sexually harassing a patient's daughter inside the hospital premises.
The safety of medical professionals has been under scrutiny since the rape and murder of a female doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital last year. Recent incidents include the assault of a female doctor in Howrah, where she was threatened with rape, and the alleged assault of a minor girl at SSKM Hospital, which led to the arrest of an outsider.
Also Read:Teenage girl allegedly sexually assaulted at SSKM Hospital
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