Guwahati: The Silchar Medical College and Hospital (SMCH) in Assam has retracted an
advisory that urged female doctors and staff to avoid isolated areas at night. The initial
advisory, issued by SMCH’s Principal cum Chief Superintendent Dr. Bhaskar Gupta,
followed the recent tragic incident involving the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at
Kolkata’s R G Kar Medical College and Hospital.
Dr. Gupta announced the cancellation of the advisory on Wednesday, noting that a revised
version would be released soon. This decision came in response to student protests
demanding better security measures within the hospital.
The original advisory aimed to enhance the safety of female doctors, students, and healthcare
workers, advising them to steer clear of isolated, dimly lit, and sparsely populated areas. It
also discouraged them from leaving their hostels or residences at night without prior
notification to the authorities.
In addition, the advisory recommended against venturing off-campus during late hours,
associating with strangers, and urged preparedness for emergency situations. It also stressed
the importance of emotional composure while on duty and advised alertness to surroundings.
Despite these guidelines, students expressed dissatisfaction, arguing that the advisory failed
to address the root causes of safety concerns at SMCH. The Junior Doctors’ Association
(JDA) President, Salman Choudhury, criticized the advisory, calling it “deeply disappointing
and embarrassing.” He advocated for better lighting, improved security, dedicated facilities,
and the installation of CCTV cameras to ensure a safer environment for all.
