Agartala — In a decisive move aimed at safeguarding patient welfare and hospital ethics, Dr. Shankar Chakraborty, Medical Superintendent of GB Pant Hospital, has issued a series of urgent directives following a surprise inspection by the Tripura Human Rights Commission (THRC).
The visit, led by THRC Chairperson Justice Arindam Lodh, prompted immediate administrative action to ensure that no human rights violations occur within the hospital premises, especially involving unattended or vulnerable patients.
Immediate Admission and Free Treatment for Unattended Patients
In a major humanitarian push:
- All Heads of Departments, In-Charges, and Medical Officers of AGMC & GBP Hospital have been ordered to report any unknown, unattended, or ailing individuals within the hospital premises to the Ward Master’s Office.
- Such individuals must be admitted without delay and provided completely free treatment.
- Upon discharge, hospital authorities must notify both the Medical Superintendent’s Office and the local police station, to coordinate rehabilitation or homestay arrangements for the individual.
Sensitisation and Human Rights Training
Recognising the need for a compassionate healthcare environment, the Medical Superintendent has written to the Director of Health Services and Director of Family Welfare & Preventive Medicine to organise sensitisation programmes for all healthcare workers across Tripura. The initiative aims to embed a culture of human rights awareness and ethical patient care.
Infrastructure and Hygiene Upgrades
Dr. Chakraborty also took up critical infrastructure gaps flagged by the THRC:
- The PWD Medical College Division has been directed to install iron grills on all washroom ventilators by May 15, 2025, to enhance patient safety and privacy.
- Steps are underway to make hospital premises more accessible and user-friendly for both patients and attendants.
Clean Water Supply a Priority
In response to hygiene concerns:
- The Executive Engineer of DWS Bhutoria-I Division has been tasked with ensuring an uninterrupted supply of iron-free drinking water across the hospital campus — covering hostels, messes, and staff quarters.
- Separate orders have been issued to expedite installation of water purifiers and coolers, which had seen delays despite earlier procurement.
Dr. Chakraborty has directed all departments to treat these orders with “most urgent” priority, reflecting a renewed commitment to ethical standards, patient dignity, and quality care at GB Pant Hospital.
