Health Ministry Orders Enhanced Security in Central Hospitals Following Kolkata Rape-Murder Incident

In response to the recent rape and murder of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare issued a letter to the heads of central government hospitals and institutes, including AIIMS and INIs, on Tuesday, urging them to enhance security measures.

The letter highlighted that government hospitals are more accessible to the public than private facilities, which can lead to security risks and incidents of violence against staff. It emphasized the need to protect healthcare professionals and ensure the safety of patients.

To address these concerns, the letter outlined several actions: installing high-resolution CCTV cameras in key areas, setting up a control room for emergency responses, employing well-trained security guards, monitoring entry and exit points strictly, and issuing identification badges for staff, patients, and visitors. It also called for all hospital staff to be trained in recognizing and responding to security threats.

Additional recommendations included limiting the number of attendants allowed with patients, devising restricted access to certain areas, and regularly updating and rehearsing emergency plans. Public address systems should be used for emergency communication, and adequate lighting should be installed in dark areas of the campus.

The letter further recommended providing secure duty rooms for female health professionals, ensuring their safe transport, and employing patient facilitators to assist and guide patients within the hospitals.

Meanwhile, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) continues its probe into the case, having been granted permission to conduct a polygraph test on the arrested suspect, according to CBI sources.