Police ask hospital officials to install CCTV cameras in ICUs

, March 14: The

police have asked all government and private hospitals in the state to install CCTV cameras in their Intensive Care Units (ICUs) in the wake of alleged sexual assault on a female patient at a reputed private hospital, said a TOI report.

Uttarakhand DGP BS Siddhu told TOI that absence of a proper video recording system in the ICU of a hospital will now be presumed as "connivance" of hospital authorities.

The 21-year-old accused, Sumit, who is presently under arrest on charges of molestation, may be booked under section 375 (E) of the new amended IPC.

"Sumit was allegedly spotted fondling the private parts of the 32-year-old woman," he said. "We are waiting for the woman's statement. She has been in the ICU for the past 19 days and is presently unconscious. If the victim confirms what her husband had reportedly seen, the accused will be booked for rape", he added.

According to the police, video footage recorded through CCTv cameras in the ICUs can be produced in courts as strong evidence in such cases. "CCTV cameras in the ICUs will not only keep a 24X7 watch on the patients, but also deter people from attempting such acts," he said.

Gaurav Rekhi, general manager of the hospital, said they have CCTV cameras installed at all important places.

"No cameras have been installed in patient areas like wards, ICUs and OTs to ensure their privacy and confidentiality as per the Indian Medical Council (professional conduct, etiquette & ethics) regulation of 2002. However, taking cognizance of the police orders, we are now seeking appropriate directions from regulatory bodies and legal experts," Rekhi said.

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