Kolkata: In a disturbing incident, a female doctor intern was allegedly molested by a patient in an inebriated state at Calcutta Medical College and Hospital, police said on Thursday.

The incident occurred on Monday night when a patient, admitted to the emergency department for treatment, reportedly harassed the female intern. Sources claim that a police officer stationed outside did not intervene despite hearing the commotion. The intern later approached the officer, who then took action.

Following the incident, doctors and medical students at the hospital raised concerns over security lapses and police inaction. On Wednesday, students staged a protest in front of the principal’s office, demanding better protection for doctors and nurses.

“One of our interns on duty was harassed and molested due to police inaction and security negligence. Doctors and health workers work day and night, risking their lives. That is why we have protested, demanding justice and proper security,” one of the protesting students told the media.

In recent weeks, several state-run hospitals in West Bengal have reported cases of physical assaults and molestation of female doctors and nurses. While most incidents led to arrests, no action has yet been taken in this case.

“We have received a complaint regarding the incident and are investigating,” a senior Kolkata Police officer said.

Concerns about the safety of medical staff in the city have intensified since the rape and murder of a female doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital last year. Other recent cases include the physical assault of a female doctor in Howrah, in which a traffic home guard was arrested, and an alleged assault of a minor girl at SSKM Hospital.

In response, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee convened a meeting with principals and superintendents of government hospitals. The Commissioner of Kolkata Police, District Magistrates, and Superintendents of Police from all districts also attended.

During the meeting, Mamata Banerjee repeatedly questioned hospital security and urged authorities to ensure that such incidents do not recur.