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Bhopal: In a proactive move to address safety concerns, Gandhi Medical College (GMC) in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, has introduced a whistle distribution program for women doctors, paramedical staff, and workers on its campus. The initiative, reported by the Free Press Journal, aims to bolster the security of women in light of recent incidents that highlighted their vulnerability in healthcare environments.
The measure follows the shocking rape of a doctor at RG Kar Medical College in Kolkata, which sparked nationwide outrage and brought attention to the safety of medical professionals, particularly women, in hospital settings.
GMC’s Dean, Dr. Kavita N. Singh, elaborated on the rationale behind the initiative, explaining that while daytime security is adequate due to high campus footfall, nighttime poses significant challenges. “It is not possible to provide security guards to every lady doctor and paramedical staff. There is no problem during the daytime as the campus remains crowded. At night, lady workers have issues, so I have distributed whistles to blow whenever they feel unsafe. The duty security guards would rush to them and ensure they are safe and sound,” she stated.
Addressing Security Concerns
The whistle initiative is part of a broader effort to ensure women feel secure while working in the sprawling campus that includes Hamidia, Sultania, and Kamla Nehru hospitals. The campus, often crowded with patients, visitors, and medical staff, also faces challenges due to unauthorised individuals loitering on its premises. The Junior Doctors Association (JUDA) has consistently raised concerns about encroachment and overcrowding, which exacerbate security risks.
Adding to the complexity, the campus includes places of worship that draw diverse groups, increasing the influx of visitors.
Broader Context in Madhya Pradesh
Safety concerns are not unique to GMC. In Indore, overcrowding has been reported at the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Medical College (MGM). Similarly, in Rewa, the lack of a boundary wall at Rewa Medical College has been a long-standing issue. Dr. Manoj Indulkar, Dean of Rewa Medical College, emphasized, “Construction of a boundary wall is a major issue and so far, no concrete steps have been taken in this regard.”
A Step Forward
While the whistle distribution initiative is seen as a temporary solution, it underscores the urgent need for systemic improvements in campus security across medical institutions. Advocates hope that this move will not only provide immediate relief but also prompt further actions to create a safer environment for healthcare professionals.
