The Silchar/Assam Medical College and Hospital (SMCH) in Assam recently faced significant backlash after issuing a controversial advisory aimed at female doctors and staff. The advisory, promoted by a tragic incident involving the rape and murder of a trainee doctor in Kolkata, advised women to avoid isolated areas, remain composed, and refrain from attracting unwanted attention while on duty. Following widespread criticism and protests from students and the Junior Doctor’s Association (JDA), the advisory was officially withdrawn on August 14, 2024.
Background of the Advisory
On August 12, 2024, Dr. Bhaskar Gupta, the principal and chief superintendent of SMCH, issued the advisory in an attempt to enhance the safety of female staff. The document suggested that women should avoid poorly lit and sparsely populated areas, refrain from leaving their hostels at night unless necessary, and maintain a composed demeanor to avoid attracting “unscrupulous people” during their duties.
Response and Backlash
The advisory was met with immediate backlash from students and medical professionals who deemed it “outrageous.” Critics argued that it failed to address the core issues of safety and security within the hospital environment, instead placing the burden of safety on women. The JDA expressed deep disappointment, stating that the advisory did not tackle the real problems faced by female doctors and staff at SMCH, such as inadequate security measures and poor lighting on campus.
Students organized protests demanding improved security measures, including better lighting installation of CCTV cameras, and more visible security personnel. They also called for an unconditional apology from the administration, emphasizing that the advisory did not reflect the need for systemic changes to ensure their safety.
Withdrawal of the Advisory
In light of the protests and the growing discontent among students and staff, SMCH announced the cancellation of the advisory. Dr. Gupta stated that a new advisory would be missed soon, adhering to National Medical Commission norms and government directives. The decision to withdraw the advisory was seen as a necessary step towards addressing the concerns of female staff and ensuring their safety in the workplace.
Conclusion
The incident at SMCH highlights the ongoing challenges women face in medical professions and the importance of institutional responsibility in ensuring their safety. The backlash against the advisory reflects a growing demand for proactive measures that prioritize the security and well-being of all healthcare workers, rather than placing the onus on women to navigate unsafe environments. As SMCH prepares to issue a new advisory, it remains crucial for the institution to engage with its staff and students to create a safer and more supportive work environment.