'Avoid Roaming Alone': Assam Medical College's Notice Sparks Backlash

Silchar Medical College and Hospital (SMCH) in Assam is facing significant backlash after issuing an advisory to its female doctors and staff, urging them to avoid roaming alone at night. The advisory was issued following a tragic incident at R.G. Kar Medical College in Kolkata, prompting concerns over the safety of female medical professionals.

Avoid Roaming Alone: Assam Medical College's Notice Sparks Backlash

Dr Bhaskar Gupta, the principal and chief superintendent of SMCH, explained that the advisory was a precautionary measure taken in response to the recent incident in Kolkata. According to Dr Gupta, the notice advised female doctors, students, and staff to "avoid isolated, poorly lit, and sparsely populated areas at night." He emphasised that this was intended to ensure the safety of female members of the medical community.

Guidelines for Night Safety

The advisory provided specific guidelines for female staff during night hours. In such cases, Dr. Gupta advised, “Female doctors, students, and staff should, as much as possible, avoid situations where they are alone. Refrain from leaving hostel or lodging rooms during night hours unless absolutely necessary, with prior information to the concerned authority.”

Dr Gupta further recommended that female staff "be cautious and avoid associating with individuals who appear unknown or are suspicious in nature." He advised them to always ensure they have a means of making emergency contact in urgent situations. Additionally, he encouraged maintaining emotional composure while on duty, staying alert to surroundings, and interacting with the public in a manner that "doesn't attract unnecessary attention from unscrupulous people."

In the advisory, Dr. Gupta emphasised the importance of promptly communicating any issues or grievances to the appropriate committees within the college. He stated, "Any issues or grievances should be immediately communicated to the Chairman or Members of the Gender Harassment Committee, Disciplinary Committee, Internal Complaints Committee, and Anti-Ragging Committee." The notice was issued with "special emphasis on female members" to address any concerns swiftly and ensure their safety and well-being.

Backlash and Criticism

The advisory however has faced significant criticism from various quarters. Many argue that the notice places the responsibility for safety on the women rather than addressing the root causes of the problem. Many have expressed concerns that such advisories perpetuate a culture of fear and victim-blaming rather than empowering women and ensuring their safety through systemic changes.