Uluberia, West Bengal – A female doctor endured an alleged assault and threats of rape within the confines of the Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay Government Medical College and Hospital on Monday. The perpetrators, identified as relatives of a patient, are reported to have initiated an argument that escalated into physical violence. Following the attack, the physician lodged a formal complaint, resulting in the apprehension of three suspects, identified as Sheikh Samrat, Sheikh Babulal, and Sheikh Hasibul.
Coming as it does, just a year after a horrific similar crime against a doctor in Kolkata, the incident has amplified concerns for healthcare workers’ safety and sparked intense political scrutiny. Medical organizations have voiced strong objections and demanded better security. Political leaders from the BJP have seized upon the event to criticize the state government’s handling of law and order, particularly concerning women’s safety. They contend that such incidents reflect a broader societal breakdown and a failure to protect citizens.
In response, government representatives have denounced the assault as unacceptable and highlighted the rapid arrests. They have also challenged the opposition’s narrative, suggesting a partisan approach to criticizing the state’s security record. The situation underscores the persistent challenges of ensuring safety and security within public institutions in West Bengal.