RG Kar PG Medico Death Case: Govt Medical Colleges Enhance Safety Amid Protests

Kolkata: In response to ongoing concerns about campus safety and amenities for medical staff, state-run medical colleges have initiated a significant renovation project. Progress at various institutes currently stands between 30% and 50%.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has called a meeting on Thursday to assess progress in infrastructure and security improvements.

This meeting highlights the government's commitment to improving the quality of medical education and addressing the challenges faced by institutions across the state.

As medical college heads prepare for their upcoming meeting with the Chief Minister of West Bengal, there is a sense of anticipation regarding the topics that will be addressed. While the official agenda has not yet been disclosed, college administrators expect a significant focus on the progress of ongoing renovations and security enhancements across various institutions.

According to the Times of India, “We have not been told the agenda at the CM’s meeting. But considering the demand of junior doctors, a part of the meeting could be about the progress of security and amenity upgrade,” said an administrator at a medical college. “The CM may ask us anything, including suggestions on improving infrastructure and services. We are prepared,” said the head of another college.

At RG Kar Medical College, the focal point of junior doctor protests, 200 new CCTV cameras are being installed to enhance security. However, some renovation projects have faced delays due to ongoing CBI investigations concerning specific buildings. Pit Baran Chakraborty, the principal of NRS Medical College, reported that previously dark areas on campus have been illuminated, and renovations of washrooms and duty rooms are currently in progress.

Also Read: 'Ready to resign': CM Banerjee says as junior doctors protest continues

In response to these concerns, the state government has sanctioned ₹100 crore for the renovation and enhancement of facilities across all 26 government medical colleges and several hospitals offering postgraduate courses. The initiative aims to address the pressing needs of medical staff and improve overall working conditions.

Indranil Biswas, principal at Medical College and Hospital, reported that the renovation of duty rooms and installation of bells is partially complete. Panic buttons will be installed, and thirty new CCTV cameras have been set up. An IPGMER official noted that 50% of the work on the renovation and CCTV camera installation is finished.

Indranil Biswas, principal of Medical College and Hospital, reported that the renovation of duty rooms and the installation of bells are partially complete. Panic buttons are set to be installed, and thirty new CCTV cameras have already been set up. An official from IPGMER mentioned that 50% of the work on renovations and camera installations is finished.

Partha Pratim Pradhan, principal of Sagore Dutta Hospital, indicated that the deployment of police officers has tripled, and CCTV cameras have been installed. He noted that since the college is relatively new, 60% of the resting rooms come with attached washrooms. For the remaining rooms, funds have been sanctioned, and tenders are currently being invited.

In addition to security enhancements, medical college heads have engaged in discussions with Swasthya Bhavan officials to improve the referral system and with the state human rights panel to enhance overall healthcare services. The commitment to upgrading both security and amenities underscores the state’s dedication to creating a safer and more conducive environment for medical professionals, particularly in light of ongoing protests advocating for better working conditions.

Also Read: Kolkata doctors to continue cease-work, seek another meeting with CM Banerjee