The horrific rape and murder of a young female doctor in Kolkata has sent shockwaves across the nation, bringing to the fore the safety concerns of women professionals, especially those working night shifts.
In response to the outrage, the West Bengal government has announced a slew of measures aimed at enhancing the security of women doctors.
Rattirer Shashi (Helpers of Night): The Emergency Assistance App For Doctors
A significant measure is the launch of a special app designed to provide quick help in emergencies. This app allows female doctors to send distress signals and get assistance immediately. By using technology, the state hopes to ensure a safer environment for healthcare professionals.
The safety measures taken under the ‘Rattirer Shashi- Helpers of Night’ include-
- Dedicated Restrooms: Establish separate restrooms with toilets exclusively for women.
- Female Night Patrols: Implement the ‘Rattirer Shaathi’ program, deploying women volunteers during night shifts.
- Safe Zones: Identify and secure designated safe zones equipped with CCTV surveillance.
- Emergency App: Develop a mobile app with a panic button directly linked to local police for women employees.
- Security Checks: Conduct regular security checks and breathalyzer tests in hospitals and medical colleges.
- Anti-Harassment Committees: Mandate the formation of Vishaka Committees in all organizations to address sexual harassment.
- Shift Pairing: Encourage paired shifts for women employees to ensure mutual awareness of whereabouts.
- Gender-Diverse Security: Deploy both male and female security guards at hospitals.
- Mandatory ID Cards: Enforce the use of identity cards for all hospital and medical college staff.
- Limited Night Shifts: Prioritize reducing night shifts for women medical professionals and cap work hours at 12.
- Private Sector Adoption: Encourage private institutions to implement the ‘Rattirer Shaathi’ protocol.
A 31-year-old trainee doctor was brutally grangraped and murdered during her duty hours at the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata on 9th August. The tragic incident has sparked a much-needed conversation about women’s safety in the workplace. It is imperative that the government, healthcare institutions, and society as a whole work together to create a safe and secure environment for all women.