Uttar Pradesh Police have arrested three individuals in connection with the alleged rape of a nurse at a private hospital in Moradabad district, officials said on Monday.
Moradabad Rural Superintendent of Police (SP) Sandeep Kumar Meena stated that the complaint was lodged on August 18 at the Thakurdwara police station. According to the complainant, his daughter, who worked at the clinic, was raped by the doctor in charge.
“On August 18, a complaint was received at Thakurdwara police station, in which the complainant alleged that his daughter was raped by the doctor of the clinic where she was employed. Based on the complaint, three individuals were identified—clinic doctor Shahnawaz, another accused Junaid, and a woman named Mehnawaz. A case has been registered against them under relevant sections, including the SC/ST Act. All three accused have been arrested. The victim’s medical examination has been completed, and the clinic has been sealed,” SP Meena stated.
The incident occurs amidst a nationwide protest following the rape and murder of a postgraduate trainee doctor at West Bengal’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. Protests have been staged across the country, with doctors demanding justice and better security for healthcare workers.
In Delhi, resident doctors from Northern Railway Central Hospital protested outside Nirman Bhawan, calling for justice in the Kolkata case. Similarly, in Mumbai, doctors gathered at Azad Maidan, urging the government to conduct safety audits in hospitals. “We request the government to ensure that every organization undergoes a safety audit. Doctors prioritize patients over their safety, but it is crucial that our workplaces are secure,” said Dr. Prerna Gomes of Jaslok Hospital.
In addition, 71 Padma awardee doctors have written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expressing their concern over the recent rape and murder in Kolkata, and urging immediate intervention to address violence against healthcare professionals.
The Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, will hear the case on August 20. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has taken over the investigation following an order from the Calcutta High Court. The incident, which took place on August 9, continues to draw widespread attention and calls for action.