Mamata Banerjee reviews hospital security and infrastructure amidst Jr doctors protest

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee convened an emergency meeting late Thursday night to address escalating concerns about hospital security in light of the ongoing protests by junior doctors. This meeting, held at her Kalighat residence, included Chief Secretary Manoj Pant and Health Secretary Narayan Swaroop Nigam. The discussions primarily revolved around the 10 key demands made by junior doctors, focusing on safety protocols and infrastructure improvements across medical facilities in the state.

The backdrop to this meeting is the junior doctors' indefinite hunger strike, which has now reached its 14th day. They have been vocal about their urgent needs for improved hospital security, adequate lighting, and better sanitation facilities. Many of their demands are centered on creating a safer work environment, as recent incidents of violence against healthcare professionals have raised alarms. Although the state government had previously promised to implement measures such as installing panic buttons and deploying female police officers to enhance safety, the doctors are increasingly frustrated over the lack of visible progress on these commitments.

In an effort to address these concerns, the Chief Secretary has called for a follow-up emergency meeting at Nabanna on Friday. This meeting will bring together officials from all medical colleges and hospitals to expedite discussions on enhancing security measures and improving the overall infrastructure of healthcare facilities. Senior officials from the Health Department are also expected to attend, emphasizing the government's commitment to resolving these critical issues.

During the meeting, Chief Minister Banerjee sought detailed updates on various security initiatives, including the installation of CCTV cameras, proper lighting arrangements, and cleanliness standards in hospitals. She urged both the Chief Secretary and Health Secretary to prioritize these security enhancements, stating that the safety of healthcare professionals and patients is paramount. Banerjee's proactive approach aims to reassure both the medical community and the public that the government is taking the junior doctors' demands seriously.