Will NCW Address the Rape Incident at Panskura Hospital?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The NCW is taking action by visiting Panskura Hospital after a female employee reported a rape incident. With a committee formed to investigate, will justice be served for the victim? Find out more about this disturbing case and the steps being taken to ensure safety in healthcare facilities.
Key Takeaways
- NCW's proactive involvement in addressing the sexual assault case.
- Formation of a committee to investigate the incident thoroughly.
- Importance of safety for healthcare workers, especially women.
- Community support is crucial in demanding justice.
- Need for systemic changes in hiring protocols to prevent future incidents.
Kolkata, Sep 20 (NationPress) The National Commission for Women (NCW) is scheduled to visit Panskura Super Specialty Hospital on Saturday regarding the reported rape of a female staff member at the facility. Meanwhile, the East Midnapore District Health Department has established a five-member panel to delve into the matter.
This committee, comprising three female officials from the health department and a female lawyer, visited the hospital premises on Friday to gather information. They subsequently engaged in discussions with the hospital superintendent.
Sources indicate that the West Bengal Commission for Women is also expected to visit the hospital on Saturday.
This development follows the NCW's suo motu cognizance of the incident, prompting them to dispatch a team to Panskura on Saturday to engage with the victim and assess the hospital where the alleged crime occurred.
NCW member Dr. Archana Majumdar informed IANS, "We are en route to Panskura. Our objective is to meet the victim and examine the hospital. We will provide updates on our findings later today."
Earlier this week, a female staff member at the hospital accused the facility's manager of rape.
The primary suspect, Zahir Abbas Khan, has been taken into custody by law enforcement. The alleged incident transpired on the night of September 14, leading the survivor, a contractual staff member, to file a complaint at the Panskura Police Station.
Subsequently, numerous female employees from the facility claimed that the accused routinely called women to his office and subjected them to sexual abuse. The allegations first surfaced on September 15, resulting in Khan's arrest in Kolaghat, located 15 kilometers from the hospital.
Khan, who headed the contractor company where the survivor was employed, allegedly threatened to kill her if she disclosed the incident.
Massive protests erupted at the hospital on Tuesday as staff expressed their dissatisfaction with previous complaints to the Medical Superintendent being disregarded.
During the committee's visit on Thursday, multiple written complaints against the accused facility manager were submitted to the members. They also reviewed various issues regarding medical services, particularly the safety of hospital personnel. Reports suggest that the committee will soon file their findings with the district health department.
The hospital's Superintendent, Kaushik Dhal, stated, "Currently, there is no new facility manager appointed to replace the accused. However, hospital services remain unaffected. We have communicated to the recruiting agency that any new appointments will require a criminal background check. We have also urged the police to ensure severe punishment for the accused in this case."
According to police reports, the accused will soon be brought to the hospital for a reconstruction of the crime. His police custody is set to end next Monday, after which he will appear in court on Tuesday. A request will be made for renewed police custody, as per sources at Panskura Police Station.
Meanwhile, three representatives from the State Women's Commission arrived in Panskura on Friday night, led by noted film director and Chairperson Leena Gangopadhyay. They interfaced with the victim to gather comprehensive details about the situation.
The commission representatives also posed various questions to the victim. Later, they visited the Panskura police station to examine the case diary and inquire about the progress of the investigation.
Point of View
This incident highlights the urgent need for strict measures to safeguard healthcare employees, particularly women, against abuse. The involvement of the National Commission for Women and local authorities signifies the seriousness with which this matter is being treated. It's imperative that thorough investigations lead to accountability and systemic changes to prevent such incidents in the future. Nation supports the cause of justice and safety for all individuals working in healthcare settings.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened at Panskura Super Specialty Hospital?
A female employee reported that she was raped by the facility's manager, leading to an investigation by the NCW and local health authorities.
Who has been arrested in this case?
The primary suspect, Zahir Abbas Khan, has been arrested by the police following the victim's complaint.
What actions are being taken by the NCW?
The NCW is visiting the hospital to meet the victim and assess the situation, as well as forming a committee to investigate the incident.
What support is being provided to the victim?
The NCW and State Women's Commission are actively engaging with the victim to ensure her safety and gather detailed information about the incident.
What measures are being implemented to prevent future incidents?
The hiring process for new facility managers will include criminal background checks, and the health department is reviewing safety protocols within the hospital.
