Kolkata : The West Bengal Health Department has issued a stringent directive to all state-run hospitals and medical colleges, mandating compulsory medical examinations for minor survivors of sexual abuse, regardless of whether a First Information Report (FIR) has been filed.
In a major move to reinforce compliance with the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, the circular explicitly states that female doctors must conduct all medical examinations involving child survivors, and such procedures must be undertaken immediately upon hospital admission, even if the family declines to initiate police action.
The order has been dispatched to principals, vice-principals of state-run medical colleges, and district health officials, following numerous complaints regarding poor enforcement of existing POCSO protocols in hospitals. A senior health official noted that although these guidelines were already part of the law, the new directive aims to eliminate procedural lapses and safeguard survivors’ rights.
Dedicated POCSO Medical Boards to be Constituted
Every hospital is now required to set up a dedicated medical board trained to handle cases under POCSO with sensitivity and confidentiality. In the event that a family member or trusted guardian is not present during the examination, the procedure must be postponed—unless a female doctor from the hospital’s POCSO Board can step in to accompany the child.
“The intent is to ensure child survivors receive timely and trauma-sensitive care, while ensuring legal safeguards are not bypassed,” a department official said.
Presence of Guardian Now Mandatory
As per the directive, a family member or trusted guardian must be present during the medical exam. If neither is available, the hospital cannot proceed with the examination unless a female doctor from the designated POCSO medical board is available to accompany the child.
Triggered by Repeated Violations
The health department’s move comes in the wake of repeated violations of POCSO norms reported from various hospitals across the state. The failure to conduct timely medical assessments—especially in the absence of an FIR—has not only hampered investigations, but also compromised the health and psychological safety of survivors.
Healthcare administrators have been warned that any further lapses will invite strict disciplinary action.
