West Bengal Introduces New Measures to Enhance Women’s Safety in Workplaces

On August 17, the West Bengal government unveiled several initiatives aimed at protecting women in the workplace, especially at state-run hospitals where they frequently work night shifts. These include safe zones monitored by CCTV and designated rest areas.

The actions were announced by Alapan Bandyopadhyay, Chief Advisor to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, during a press conference. The doctors in the state have been protesting the alleged rape and murder of a 31-year-old female junior resident doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital.

The measures are listed as follows:

Rattirer Sathi: In addition to hospitals and medical schools, hostels and other establishments that employ women for night shifts will now be included in the flagship initiative "Rattirer Sathi—Helpers of the Night," which is made up of volunteers, stated Bandyopadhyay.

Alarm-equipped mobile app: The state government has made the decision to create an alarm-equipped mobile application that women can download and use to contact their local police stations in an emergency.

He also said that workers in public and private institutions will be urged to organise female two-person teams at night so they can inform one another of their whereabouts. "We have also recommended maintaining the right ratio of male and female security staffers at workplaces," he stated.

Breath analyser tests: He stated that hospitals and medical schools in Kolkata and the surrounding districts would perform breath analyser tests.

Patrolling at night: All medical schools, hospitals, and women's hostels will also have night police patrols in place.

Women should try to avoid night duty whenever possible. We hope these steps are taken as soon as possible," he continued.