Chain Snatching Inside AIIMS Bhopal Lift Raises Serious Security Concerns

An incident of chain snatching has been reported inside the AIIMS Bhopal campus, where a woman employee was targeted inside a lift. The incident occurred on Sunday but came to light on Monday after CCTV footage surfaced, raising questions over security arrangements at the premier hospital.

The incident took place in a lift located behind the blood bank. The victim, identified as Varsha, was alone in the lift while on duty when a masked young man entered. Pretending to seek information, he asked her about a medical department.

As the lift reached the third floor, the man stepped out, suddenly turned back and attempted to snatch her mangalsutra. When the woman resisted, the accused pushed her aside and fled towards the staircase, escaping with the chain.

At the time of the incident, no security guard was posted near the lift. The matter came to light later when a guard arrived during routine rounds and alerted senior officials. The victim then approached Bagsewania police station and lodged a complaint.

Due to the Sunday holiday and Republic Day on January 26, patient movement on the campus was relatively low. Preliminary investigation suggests that the accused escaped through the IPD gate. He has not yet been identified.

While theft incidents have been reported earlier on the AIIMS Bhopal campus, officials said this is the first reported case of chain snatching, triggering concerns over the hospital administration’s security measures. Police have begun an investigation based on CCTV footage.