A 40-year-old visitor tragically died in a lift accident at Kolkata’s R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital. The incident has raised concerns about public hospital safety and accountability in West Bengal. This incident brings back memories of a past tragedy at the same hospital premises in 2024.
Protests following the incident were minimal, and the hospital administration responded promptly. However, there are reports that the victim had political affiliations, potentially influencing opposition mobilization. The victim’s family aligning with the BJP has also impacted the protest dynamics.
The upcoming Assembly elections in West Bengal have added a political dimension to the situation. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s stronghold on women and minority support through welfare schemes and symbolic leadership is a significant factor. The tragic incident at the hospital has failed to evoke strong emotions in the state.
The victim, along with his wife and three-year-old son, got stuck in the lift for an hour. The victim was found trapped between the lift doors while attempting to open them. The incident underscores the importance of public hospital infrastructure and safety in the state.
