Kolkata: In yet another shocking incident highlighting the growing safety concerns of healthcare professionals in West Bengal, a female intern doctor at the Calcutta Medical College and Hospital (CMCH) was allegedly molested by a patient in an inebriated state on Monday night.
According to reports, the incident occurred in the emergency department when the patient was brought in for treatment. Despite the commotion, a policeman stationed outside the ward reportedly failed to intervene. The intern later approached the police to lodge a complaint, following which authorities initiated an investigation. However, no arrests have been made so far.
Medical Students Stage Protest
The incident triggered widespread anger among hospital staff and students. On Wednesday, medical students held a protest in front of the principal’s office, demanding stronger security measures for doctors, nurses, and hospital staff.
“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 and proper security,” one of the protesting students told IANS.
Police Action and Hospital Response
A senior Kolkata Police officer confirmed that the complaint had been received and an inquiry is underway. “We are looking into the matter,” the officer said.
The hospital administration has also come under scrutiny for failing to ensure adequate safety within the emergency ward — one of the busiest and most vulnerable areas in state-run hospitals.
Pattern of Assaults Against Female Medical Staff
This latest case adds to a growing list of assaults on female healthcare professionals across government hospitals in West Bengal. Recently, a ward boy at Burdwan Medical College and Hospital was arrested for sexually harassing a patient’s daughter.
The issue of safety in hospitals has been under intense focus since the rape and murder of a female doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital last year — an incident that sparked nationwide outrage and led to calls for comprehensive hospital security reform.
Other recent cases include the assault of a female doctor in Howrah, who was threatened with rape, and the molestation of a minor girl at SSKM Hospital, where an outsider was later arrested.
Doctors Demand Immediate Action
The protesting students and staff at CMCH have urged authorities to:
- Increase police deployment in sensitive hospital zones.
- Install more CCTV cameras.
- Ensure the presence of female security personnel in emergency wards.
- Take swift and strict action against negligence by security forces.
The protests are expected to continue until concrete safety measures are implemented.
