In a rather horrifying incident in Patna, a Covid-positive 45-year-old woman was allegedly sexually assaulted in the health facility where she was hospitalized. The lady, who was infected and at a critical stage, was rushed to a private hospital for a speedy recovery. But turns out, she endured a nightmare as she fought for survival in the ICU ward— and was allegedly gang-raped by the medical staff.
The incident has created a furor of sorts in Bihar and across the country, largely focused on the safety of women who’re hospitalized for intensive care after testing positive for coronavirus. While the National Commission for Women (NCW) has launched a probe into the matter, many relevant details pertaining to the incident remain undisclosed. The crime came to light after the victim’s daughter reported the incident to the police, and reportedly listed three names, as cited in India TV.
As mentioned by the Facility Director of the hospital, an internal team was constituted to look into the matter. The team’s spokesperson said, “They did not find anything. Police are here, they are investigating too. Woman's daughter has leveled allegations against 3 people.”
Despite there being no tangible evidence as yet, the NCW has sought a time-bound probe to get to the root of the matter. As reported by The Tribune, Sharma has urged the Director General of Police of Bihar to intervene and file an FIR at the earliest. “The Commission has sought a time-bound investigation and action taken has to be intimated to the Commission at the earliest,” the NCW added.
The CCTV footage of the happenings in the hospital’s premises— especially the ward—is being examined to zero in on the prime suspects.
In a statement offered, the NCW’s office announced: "Chairperson Rekha Sharma has written to Chief Secretary, Bihar to look into the matter and to give appropriate directions to the District Police officials and the hospital.”
The gnawing incident throws light on the uptick in the sexual crimes against women during unearthly hours at healthcare facilities. The country is presently grappling under the pandemic, with an ongoing struggle for hospital beds, oxygen cylinders, and vaccine dosages.
