The event in Kolkata has rocked the country to its core. It draws attention to how urgently women’s safety has to be improved throughout India, especially in educational institutions.
A 10-person task team was established by the Indian Supreme Court on Tuesday to create a thorough policy for the protection of physicians and other healthcare workers. The court, presided over by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud, emphasized that safeguarding female physicians is a national priority and that the equality principle requires no less.
The ruling was made during the court’s suo motu hearing in which a trainee doctor at the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata was the victim of both rape and murder. The task group has been instructed to turn in a final report in two months, and an interim report in three weeks.
The Incident in Kolkata: A Nation in Shock
Shockwaves from the deadly attack in Kolkata have spread throughout the country. The victim was attacked in a location where she ought to have felt safe—while she was sleeping during her night shift. This terrible event highlights how urgently safety precautions for women must be improved in all fields, including healthcare and education.
Educational Institutions’ Voices: How Can Campus Safety Be Improved?
Hindustan Times Digital asked prominent leaders in academia for their opinions on how to enhance campus safety in the wake of this concerning occurrence. The following are some of the key suggestions:
Registrar at the International Management Institute: Rajendra Singh
The necessity of a comprehensive strategy for campus safety was emphasized by Rajendra Singh. “Ensuring student safety requires a combination of preventive measures and robust support systems,” he said. Singh emphasized that the three most essential elements of safety are well-lit spaces, safe lodging, and skilled security guards.
Additionally, he emphasized how important technology is to improving campus security. “CCTV cameras, fire alarms, and emergency alert systems are vital for quick responses to emergencies,” he said. Singh also emphasized the need to create an environment where kids watch out for one another and report any questionable behavior.
Principal of Sanskriti School in Pune, Shilpa Desai
School safety is equally as important as it is at institutions, according to Shilpa Desai. “Every student has the right to physical and emotional security on campus,” she said. Desai emphasized the necessity of rigorous background checks on employees and ongoing watchfulness to guarantee that kids are never left alone. She also emphasized how important CCTV cameras are to preserving a secure learning environment.
Amity University’s Director of Hostels, Chaya Chordia
Amity University’s strong commitment to women’s safety was reiterated by Chaya Chordia. “Our robust security system is proof of our dedication. The campus has CCTV cameras installed, is well-lit, and our emergency response teams are prepared to move quickly,” the spokesperson stated. Amity University prohibits harassment and assault with a stringent zero-tolerance policy.
Chordia also described the university’s cutting-edge security protocols, such as frequent night patrols and facial recognition at dormitory entrance points. In addition, the Amity Help Desk for Women offers female teachers, staff, and students round-the-clock help for problems with emotional, psychological, physical, and sexual harassment. “We offer a platform for women to voice their concerns and access the necessary authorities, including local police, to ensure they get the help they need,” said Prof. Nirupama Prakash, Co-Chairperson of the care Desk.
An Appeal for Group Accountability
The terrible event that occurred at RG Kar Medical College has brought attention to how urgent action is required to protect women’s safety on college campuses. Prioritizing student safety requires educational institutions to use technology, put in place strict security measures, and offer strong support networks.
But ensuring campus safety calls for more than simply administrative action; a team effort is needed. To provide safe spaces for learning and development, educators, staff, and students must collaborate, be watchful, be honest in their communication, and accept responsibility. It is only then that we can expect to avert such tragedies in the future and guarantee that universities continue to be secure havens of opportunity devoid of fear.
