Bengaluru: In yet another incident highlighting concerns over women’s safety in the city, a young doctor was allegedly molested by an unidentified man while she was returning to her accommodation after completing her hospital duty late at night.
Incident reported in early hours
According to the police complaint, the incident occurred at around 12.49 am on December 17. The victim, who has completed her MBBS and is currently pursuing her post-graduation at Saptagiri Medical College, was walking back to her paying guest accommodation after finishing her shift.
Police officials said the woman was alone on the road when the accused approached her on a two-wheeler. He reportedly stopped close to her and engaged her in conversation under the pretext of asking for the location of a nearby bus stop.
Accused fled after woman raised alarm
The complaint states that while pretending to seek directions, the man allegedly behaved indecently and groped the doctor’s chest. Taken by shock, the woman screamed loudly for help. Hearing her cries, the accused immediately fled the spot on his bike.
The woman later approached the Soladevanahalli Police Station and lodged a formal complaint detailing the assault. Based on her statement, the police have registered a case and initiated an investigation.
Police yet to identify suspect
Police officials said that efforts are underway to identify and trace the accused. CCTV footage from nearby areas is being examined to track the movement of the two-wheeler and establish the identity of the suspect. However, as of now, no arrest has been made in the case.
A senior police officer said that such incidents are being taken seriously and assured that all possible steps are being taken to ensure the safety of women, particularly those working night shifts, including healthcare professionals.
Pattern of similar crimes raises concern
This incident comes close on the heels of another case reported earlier this week, in which a 27-year-old man was arrested for targeting women who were walking or riding alone during evening hours. The accused, identified as Vinod T, was employed at a sandwich outlet in the city.
According to police investigations in that case, Vinod had allegedly been involved in molesting women for over a month. He would reportedly approach women who were alone, hug them tightly or touch them inappropriately, and then escape on his two-wheeler.
Police said the accused deliberately targeted women who appeared isolated, exploiting moments when streets were relatively less crowded.
Safety of women under scrutiny again
The latest incident involving the young doctor has once again sparked concerns about women’s safety, especially during late-night hours. Medical professionals, particularly doctors and nurses, often work extended shifts that require them to travel at odd hours, making them vulnerable to such crimes.
Women’s rights activists have repeatedly called for better policing, improved street lighting, and increased surveillance in areas frequented by working women. They have also stressed the need for stricter punishment to deter offenders.
Call for stronger preventive measures
Residents and social organisations have urged authorities to increase night patrolling and deploy more police personnel in sensitive zones. They have also suggested installing more CCTV cameras and ensuring quicker response times to distress calls.
Experts point out that while arrests after incidents are necessary, preventive measures play a crucial role in reducing crimes against women. Awareness campaigns encouraging bystander intervention and prompt reporting are also being emphasised.
Conclusion
As police continue their efforts to trace the accused in the doctor molestation case, the incident serves as a grim reminder of the challenges surrounding women’s safety. With back-to-back cases being reported, there is renewed pressure on law enforcement agencies and civic authorities to strengthen security measures and restore confidence among women who step out alone, especially during late hours.