Government Intensifies Security at Hospitals Amid Protests

The Union health ministry has issued new security measures for all central government hospitals. These include strict monitoring of entry and exit points, escorting women health professionals at night, and providing secured duty rooms with basic amenities. The measures come following protests by resident doctors demanding a law against violence towards healthcare workers.

The Union health ministry on Monday unveiled a series of stringent security measures to be implemented across all central government hospitals. These encompass rigorous monitoring of entry and exit points, providing escorts for female health professionals during night shifts, and ensuring secured duty rooms with basic amenities.

This initiative follows a wave of protests by resident doctors, spurred by the alleged rape and murder of a trainee doctor at a Kolkata state-run hospital. The doctors have been vociferously demanding a special central law to curb violence against healthcare workers.

In a detailed communication to hospital heads, the ministry underscored the importance of balancing public accessibility with robust security measures. Recommendations include installing high-resolution CCTV cameras, employing trained security personnel, and conducting regular emergency drills. The goal is to safeguard both healthcare professionals and patients while maintaining operational integrity.