Maharashtra Security Force Personnel Deployed at Cooper Hospital

The Maharashtra State Security Corporation (MSSC) has authorized the deployment of personnel from the Maharashtra Security Force (MSF) at Dr. R. N. Cooper Hospital in Vile Parle, Mumbai. This decision comes in response to a recent assault on resident doctors, which has raised significant safety concerns regarding security protocols in civic hospitals. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is now taking formal measures to enhance security at the facility.

High-Level Meeting Propels Security Initiative

Following a high-level meeting on November 10, 2023, senior officials, including the Deputy Municipal Commissioner (General Administration) and the Director of Medical Education and Major Hospitals, instructed relevant departments to expedite the process for MSF’s induction. A detailed proposal is expected to be submitted for approval by November 12, which will escalate the plan up to the Municipal Commissioner’s level for final endorsement.

According to MSSC officials, a joint security assessment will determine the necessary number of guards for the hospital. Although the BMC is exempt from registration fees due to its status as a registered establishment, the hospital will be required to pay a security assessment fee. The deployment of security officers aims to provide effective supervision and discipline among the guards.

Resident Doctors Call for Permanent Security Measures

The recent violence has prompted resident doctors to demand improved security measures. The Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors (MARD) expressed support for the MSF deployment while advocating for the BMC to extend security arrangements to all major municipal hospitals permanently. This response underscores the urgent need for enhanced protection for medical staff and patients alike.

Until MSF personnel are fully deployed, security responsibilities at Cooper Hospital will remain with existing BMC staff. However, officials have indicated that if election dates are announced for the BMC, the final approval of the proposal could face delays of up to six months due to the implementation of the Model Code of Conduct.

The decision to bolster security at Cooper Hospital marks a significant step towards addressing the safety concerns of medical professionals in Mumbai, emphasizing the necessity for ongoing vigilance in civic healthcare settings.