Molestation of dengue patient: Notice to police, Fortis Hospital

The Karnataka State Women’s Commission has served a notice on the High Grounds Police and Fortis Hospitals, Cunningham Road, in connection with the molestation of a 54-year-old woman dengue patient by a hospital staffer.

Manjula Manasa, chairperson of the commission, said that the commission had sought details from the police and hospital about the incident. Presently, a case has been booked under Section 354 (Assault or criminal force to woman with intent to outrage her modesty) of the Indian Penal Code with the High Grounds police. The commission feels that Section 376 (rape) may be considered in this case.

“We received a complaint that the police had altered the complaint. We have asked the DCP to look into the matter and take action if necessary,” she said.

She said that the hospital had not taken full responsibility and had just terminated the services of the employee.

“They should have lodged the complaint against him themselves. The incident has taken place in the ICU of the hospital. Terminating his services is not taking up responsibility. We have written to the health minister in this regard,” she said.