Will Karnataka's Call For AI-Based Security At Medical Institutes Impact Women's Safety?

The Karnataka government has reportedly planned to enhance security at medical institutes by using artificial intelligence-based systems. The State's minister for Medical Education & Skill Development Sharan Prakash Patil chaired a high-level meeting to discuss measures aimed at ensuring the safety of healthcare professionals, especially women, an official press release noted. This comes amid nationwide concerns over the safety and security of healthcare professionals, particularly women.

Several disturbing incidents of sexual violence and abuse of professionals have been reported recently in India. In Kolkata, the rape and murder of an on-duty postgraduate trainee doctor trigfered widespread protests by medical professionals demanding safety at medical institutes.

Karnataka Government Plans AI-Based Security Systems

Karnataka's Medical Education Ministry had reportedly reviewed existing security systems at hospitals, colleges, and hostels to propose these improvements. Minister Sharan Prakash Patil proposed the integration of AI, stating, "The use of Al can help create a more robust security system that operates around the clock, ensuring the safety of women healthcare workers." 

According to the press release acquired by Deccan Herald, Patil said, "Directors of medical institutions must gather feedback in writing and take concrete steps to implement necessary measures." He emphasised the need to hear the medical professionals' concerns to provide them sustainable solutions. "It's essential that we take the concerns of women healthcare workers seriously and act on them swiftly," he added.

Patil suggested that a security audit committee should be formed with monthly meetings to review the safety protocols at the institutes. He added that thorough background checks must be conducted for all security personnel. “To further ensure safety, 24/7 canteen facilities should be available so that women healthcare staff do not need to leave the premises," he added.

During the meeting, the Director of Medical Education, B L Sujatha Rathod, outlined the current security systems in place at medical institutions across Karnataka. During the trial of the Kolkata case, the Supreme Court of India formed a 10-member National Task Force (NTF) to monitor the safety of doctors in India. All the State governments were directed to review their security protocols and enhance safety at the institutions.