Kolkata Rape - Murder Tragedy: SMCH Sparks Outrage With 'No Roaming At Night' Advisory For Female Doctors

The authorities at Silchar Medical College and Hospital (SMCH) have come under scrutiny after an advisory was issued to female doctors and other staff members, advising them to avoid roaming alone at night.

The notice, released by the principal and chief superintendent of the institute, Dr. Bhaskar Gupta, was prompted by the recent tragic incident at R.G. Kar Medical College in Kolkata.

SMCH Sparks Outrage On His Latest Advisory - Here's What He Said

In the advisory, female doctors, students, and staff were urged to avoid isolated, poorly lit, and sparsely populated areas at night. It was recommended that they refrain from leaving their hostel or lodging rooms during night hours unless absolutely necessary, and only after informing the concerned authorities.

The advisory also suggested that female staff avoid going off-campus during late or odd hours and encouraged them to follow hostel norms and regulations strictly. Dr. Gupta emphasized the importance of remaining emotionally composed and alert while on duty, as well as interacting graciously with the public to avoid attracting unnecessary attention from unscrupulous individuals.

Additionally, staff members were advised to be cautious when associating with unknown or suspicious people and to ensure that they have a means of making emergency contact if necessary. The notice also addressed the procedure for reporting issues or grievances, directing staff to communicate with the Chairman or members of various committees, including the Gender Harassment Committee, Disciplinary Committee, Internal Complaint Committee, and Anti-Ragging Committee.

Dr. Gupta defended the advisory, stating that it was issued in the greater interest of doctors, students, and staff, with special emphasis on female members, and was intended to prevent any untoward incidents. However, the advisory has been met with strong criticism from students and staff, who argue that the solution lies in improving campus security rather than restricting the movements of female staff.

A female doctor, speaking on the condition of anonymity, expressed disappointment and frustration, noting that despite repeated complaints about eve-teasing and vulgar behavior from male staff and attendants, no action had been taken. She criticized the authorities for advising women to stay in their rooms rather than addressing the security concerns on campus.

The Junior Doctors' Association (JDS) of SMCH also condemned the advisory, describing the language used in the notice as disturbing. JDS President Salman Choudhary expressed respect for the authorities' concerns but reiterated that improved security measures are necessary to address the long-standing issues at SMCH.

In response to the backlash, Dr. Gupta announced late Tuesday night that the existing advisory would be withdrawn and a new one issued the following day.