Medical College Principal’s NO to demand for Islamic attire
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (VSK). Thiruvananthapuram Govt. Medical College Principal Dr. Linet J. Morris rejected the demand of seven Muslim girl students for permission to wear the Islamic religious attire in operation theatre. Operation theatre should be always sterile.
Principal is reported to have rejected the students’ request based on the report of the experts’ committee she formed in view of the demand. The committee was asked to examine the matter thoroughly and report. As soon as the news of the students’ demand for the Islamic religious attire, in the operation theatre, senior doctors and medical experts expressed their opposition to it. Indian Medical Association (IMA) vehemently opposed the students’ demand; patient’s safety cannot be compromised at any cost.
IMA has reportedly said that the sterile protocols and dress code inside the operation theatres are in accordance with the accepted norms such as ‘Bare Below Elbow’ policy. Some doctors mention that cleaning below the elbows, before the surgery, is a time-taking job.
All stake-holders emphasised the significance of strict adherence to the dress code in operation theatre. The idea is to maintain infection control protocols and safety of the patient. Surgeons and experts in infection diseases also opposed the demand in clear terms.
State health minister Veena George also echoed the aforementioned opinions. She said, it does not depend on any government’s decision. International standards should be followed. Patient’s life is important.
Medical fraternity asserts that patient is the VIP and his/her interest is of paramount importance.
Meanwhile, Adv. K. Thoheena, leader of Muslim Students Federation, student wing of Indian Union Muslim League, supported the demand of Muslim medial students.
Several observers opine that there are some ‘forces’ behind the students’ demand for Islamic attire within the operation theatre. It is a game plan to deploy students for floating these sorts of demands. Usually, the issues relating to students are, in most cases, viewed as mischiefs or funs of the youths. They cite the example of ‘Tukde Tukde Gang’ of JNU and their anti-national slogans. However, the students’ activities can attract the public attention. It can create a momentum in opinion making. They, therefore, demand a thorough enquiry into the circumstances which led to the letter of demand from the seven students.
