The Supreme Court has expressed strong discontent with the West Bengal government and the authorities at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital regarding the delay in filing a First Information Report (FIR) and other procedural failures in the investigation of the brutal rape and murder of a post-graduate trainee doctor. The incident, which took place on August 9, has sparked widespread protests across the nation, particularly concerning women’s safety in medical institutions.
CJI Chandrachud Voices Concerns
During the hearing, Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud, leading a three-judge bench including Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra, raised serious questions about the actions of both the hospital administration and local police. “Why was the FIR registered three hours after the body was handed over for cremation?” the bench inquired, highlighting the significant delay that has come under scrutiny.
CJI Chandrachud also questioned the role of the hospital’s principal and the police, pointing out that a serious crime had occurred within the hospital premises. “What was the principal doing? FIR was not filed; the body was handed late to the parents. What is the police doing? A serious offence has taken place, the crime scene is in a hospital… What are they doing? Allowing vandals to enter the hospital?” he remarked, indicating dissatisfaction with how the situation was managed.
Principal’s Actions Under Investigation
The principal of RG Kar Medical College, Sandip Ghosh, who resigned just two days after the incident, has been under intense scrutiny by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Mr. Ghosh has been questioned for nearly 53 hours over the past four days regarding his actions following the doctor’s death. The Supreme Court noted that despite his resignation, Mr. Ghosh was reassigned as the principal of another medical college, a decision that has since been challenged.
Calcutta High Court Steps In
In response to the developments, the Calcutta High Court has ordered the West Bengal Health Department not to appoint Mr. Ghosh to any other medical college until further notice. This directive followed his brief appointment as the principal of Calcutta National Medical College and Hospital, which triggered protests from students and junior doctors, further complicating the situation.
Nationwide Protests and Calls for Justice
The incident has fueled nationwide protests, with citizens and organizations demanding swift justice and better safety measures for women, particularly those working and studying in medical colleges. The Supreme Court’s intervention has added significant pressure on the state government and law enforcement agencies to ensure a thorough and transparent investigation into the tragic event