Assam medical college retracts advisory urging women doctors to avoid night outings amid backlash

New Delhi: Assam's Silchar Medical College and Hospital (SMCH) has withdrawn an advisory that urged female doctors, students, and staff to avoid venturing out at night in sparsely populated areas. The advisory, issued on August 12, faced widespread criticism and was subsequently canceled, as confirmed by a tweet from the Assam Chief Minister's Office.

Advisory withdrawal following outrage

The initial advisory came in the wake of the national outrage following the tragic rape and murder of a trainee doctor at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. It advised female staff to avoid leaving the campus late at night or at unusual hours, unless absolutely necessary, and to inform the concerned authorities in advance. The advisory also cautioned against associating with strangers or suspicious individuals.

"A new advisory will be issued soon, adhering to National Medical Commission (NMC) norms and government directives," stated the Chief Minister's Office, indicating the intent to revise the guidelines.

Demand for better security

The advisory, signed by SMCH principal Dr Bhaskar Gupta, sparked significant backlash, particularly from students and social media users who labeled it as "misogynistic." Critics argued that the institution should focus on improving campus security rather than restricting the movements of women.

Assam: Silchar Medical College and Hospital cancels its earlier advisory that was issued in wake of RG Kar Medical College & Hospital rape-murder case, new advisory to be issued soon.

Silchar Medical College & Hospital had earlier issued an advisory for female doctors, students… pic.twitter.com/D9LKv2ZxJB

— ANI (@ANI) August 14, 2024

The Junior Doctors' Association (JDS) of SMCH also condemned the advisory, describing it as disturbing. In response, the JDS issued a notice demanding enhanced security measures on campus, including better lighting, dedicated washroom facilities, and security personnel stationed outside doctors' rooms.

As the controversy unfolds, the institution has committed to issuing a new advisory that aligns with national and governmental guidelines. The move reflects a broader call for institutions to ensure the safety of their staff without imposing restrictive measures that disproportionately affect women.