Incident near Kolkata medical college raises fresh concerns over safety of women doctors; police arrest four accused after reviewing CCTV footage
In a disturbing incident that has reignited concerns over the safety of women healthcare professionals, a woman doctor has alleged that she was molested and harassed by a group of outsiders near the ladies’ hostel of NRS Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata. The incident, which reportedly occurred in the early hours of Saturday, has prompted police action and a review of campus security arrangements.
According to reports, the alleged incident took place at around 3:00 a.m., less than a year after the high-profile RG Kar Medical College rape and murder case, which had triggered nationwide demands for stronger safety measures for women doctors.
Woman Doctor Alleges Harassment by Intoxicated Men
As per the complaint, a group of allegedly intoxicated men gathered outside the ladies’ hostel, shouted abusive remarks, played loud music and attempted to attract the attention of women residing in the hostel.
The doctor alleged that she was subjected to molestation and obscene gestures during the incident, causing distress and raising serious concerns about the security of female residents on the campus.
Police Alerted, CCTV Footage Examined
Following the incident, the doctor immediately informed the hostel authorities, who alerted the police.
Hospital officials said CCTV cameras installed on the campus captured several young men arriving on motorcycles and loitering near the ladies’ hostel shortly before the incident.
Although the accused allegedly fled before the police reached the spot, investigators later examined CCTV footage from the hospital premises and nearby areas to identify those involved.
Four Accused Arrested
Based on the doctor’s complaint and evidence gathered during the investigation, police arrested four individuals in connection with the case.
Confirming the development, NRS Medical College Principal Dr Indira Dey said an FIR had been registered and that police had acted promptly.
She stated that any complaint of this nature would be immediately reported to law enforcement and made it clear that such incidents would not be tolerated on the campus.
Previous Complaints of Harassment Reported
A senior hospital official described the alleged incident as extremely serious, noting that there had been previous complaints of women doctors being subjected to catcalling and even stone-pelting from outside the campus.
However, officials said the latest incident was particularly alarming because the accused allegedly managed to enter the hospital premises, raising questions about existing security arrangements.
Security Lapses Under Review
The woman doctor reportedly questioned how outsiders were able to gather so close to the ladies’ hostel despite security measures at the government medical college.
Hospital authorities said the accused are believed to be residents of a nearby slum. Officials also pointed to a gate near the morgue that is supposed to remain closed during the evening but is allegedly being used by unauthorised persons to enter the campus.
The administration has initiated a review of security measures, particularly around hostel areas, to enhance the safety of students and resident doctors.
Hospital, Police Reviewing Campus Security
Another hospital official said the RG Kar Medical College incident had already prompted authorities to strengthen security arrangements for women doctors, but acknowledged that further improvements were necessary.
Officials said discussions are underway with the police to enhance surveillance and regulate the movement of outsiders within the hospital campus while maintaining public access to the healthcare facility.
Meanwhile, police continue to investigate how the accused entered the campus, whether any security lapses occurred and if additional individuals were involved. CCTV footage and other evidence are being examined as the investigation progresses.
