The Supreme Court has delivered a scathing critique of the West Bengal government and Kolkata Police for their handling of the rape and murder case of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. Justice Pardiwala expressed shock at the investigation, stating, ‘I have never seen such an investigation in my 30-year career’. The court’s primary concerns include a 14-hour delay in filing the First Information Report (FIR) and questionable sequencing of events, suggesting a potential cover-up attempt.The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), now leading the probe, has alleged that the crime scene was altered before they took over, hindering further investigation. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the court that senior doctors and the victim’s colleagues had requested videography, indicating their suspicion of a cover-up. The CBI has questioned 42 people, including the prime accused Sanjay Roy and former hospital principal Dr. Sandip Ghosh.Despite the Supreme Court’s appeal for doctors to resume work, junior doctors in West Bengal continue their cease-work protest for the 14th consecutive day. The doctors state that ‘justice is yet to be delivered’. This ongoing strike has significantly impacted healthcare services in state-run hospitals across West Bengal.The case has sparked nationwide outrage and debates on the safety of healthcare workers. In response, the Supreme Court has directed the Union health ministry to engage with state officials to implement basic safety measures for doctors across India. The court has also emphasized that the case should not be politicized, stating that ‘law will take its course’.As the investigation continues, the Supreme Court has ordered a senior official from Kolkata Police to be present at the next hearing. The court’s strong stance and the ongoing protests underscore the gravity of the case and the urgent need for improved safety measures for healthcare workers across the country.
Key points
- The Supreme Court has strongly criticized the West Bengal government and Kolkata Police for mishandling the investigation into the doctor’s murder case.
- The CBI alleges that the crime scene was altered, hindering their investigation.
- Junior doctors in West Bengal continue their protest despite the Supreme Court’s appeal to return to work.
- The case has led to nationwide debates on healthcare worker safety and calls for improved security measures.
Contradictions👾While most doctors across India have ended their strike following the Supreme Court’s appeal, junior doctors in West Bengal continue their protest.
