According to internal government documents, the hospital was supposed to have effective security equipment and systems, regulated entry and exit, and a compensation policy for assaulted staff. However, only two male guards were manning the hospital, and the CCTV cameras did not comprehensively cover the premises.
Colleagues of the murdered doctor have come forward, sharing their own experiences with safety issues at the hospital. One doctor, Dr. Shreya Shaw, reported finding two strangers shaking her awake while she was sleeping in a designated restroom.
Another doctor, Dr. Riya Bera, stated that if the promised security measures had been taken, the incident may never have happened.
The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has highlighted the vulnerability of female doctors, with about 60% of India's doctors being female and three-quarters of them facing verbal abuse, physical attacks, and harassment while on duty.
The Supreme Court has also acknowledged the issue, stating that relatives of patients often challenge women medical professionals and that they face various forms of sexual violence at the workplace.
The incident has sparked outrage and calls for improved safety measures for healthcare workers, particularly female doctors. The government has announced plans to spend $12 million on improvements, including better lighting, resting spaces, and female security staff.
