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The Supreme Court criticized West Bengal's plan to hire private security guards under the ‘Rattirer Sathi’ scheme for protecting women in government hospitals.
Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud highlighted that the main accused in the recent case of rape and murder of a junior doctor was a volunteer.
Rattirer Sathi scheme
"Rattirer Sathi" (Night Companion) to improve the safety and security of women, especially those working night shifts in various workplaces and hospitals by West Bengal govt.
This came in response to ongoing protests by doctors and students following the tragic rape and murder of a woman doctor at RG Kar Hospital.
Security guards in medical colleges, hospitals, and district hospitals will now include both male and female guards.
Police officers will be stationed at these facilities to oversee overall security.
Nighttime police patrols will also be conducted at all medical colleges, hospitals, and women’s hostels to ensure safety.
Safe zones with full CCTV coverage will be established, and designated rest areas with washrooms will be created for women.
To further enhance security, all faculty, staff, students, and security personnel at medical institutions will be required to carry and wear their ID cards at all times
Security checks and breathalyzer tests will be mandatory at these institutions, and all organizations will be encouraged to set up a Vishakha Committee to address sexual harassment in the workplace
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