Following the tragic rape and murder of a woman trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata, the West Bengal government has introduced “Rattirer Shaathi” (meaning “helpers of the night”), a multi-faceted initiative aimed at enhancing safety for women working night shifts.
The initiative’s centerpiece is a dedicated mobile app equipped with alarm features. This app, mandatory for all working women, will be directly linked to local police stations and control rooms. Chief Advisor to the Chief Minister, Alapan Bandyopadhyay, emphasized the importance of the app during a press conference on August 17th, stating that it is a crucial element of the government’s flagship program for women’s safety.
Beyond the app, ‘Rattirer Shaathi’ also includes the creation of designated safe zones within hospitals and medical colleges, complete with CCTV coverage and monitoring. These zones will provide women with secure areas to rest or seek assistance if needed. The government will also implement stricter security protocols, including breathalyzer tests and identity card checks for staff, faculty, and security personnel at all medical facilities.
To further address the issue of sexual harassment, the government is mandating all organizations to comply with the Visakha Committee guidelines on sexual harassment in workplaces. Additionally, the government is launching sensitization programs for both government and private organizations on matters related to women’s safety.
Beyond these specific measures, the government has also implemented broader initiatives to improve women’s safety, such as:
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Increased Night Patrols:
Night police patrols will be conducted at medical colleges, hospitals, women’s hostels, and other areas where women work.*
Enhanced Water Access:
Adequate drinking water facilities will be provided on all floors of women’s hostels.*
Security Guard Ratio:
Security guards in government medical facilities will now include both male and female personnel to ensure a more comprehensive and inclusive security presence.*
Working Hour Limits:
The government recommends a 12-hour working limit for women and encourages employers to avoid assigning night shifts to women whenever possible.The introduction of ‘Rattirer Shaathi’ reflects the government’s commitment to addressing the critical issue of women’s safety, particularly in workplaces, and demonstrates a proactive approach to tackling the root causes of violence against women. The initiative aims to create a safer environment for women, empowering them to work and live with greater security and peace of mind.
