Kolkata Rape-Murder Case: BJP Leader Locket Chatterjee and Doctors Summoned Over Alleged Misinformation
News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/18th August 2024
In a significant development in the ongoing investigation of the tragic rape and murder of a young doctor at R G Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata, the city’s police have summoned BJP leader Locket Chatterjee and two prominent doctors, Dr. Kunal Sarkar and Dr. Subarna Goswami, for allegedly spreading false information and revealing the identity of the victim. The police, acting on the basis of these accusations, have also called in 57 others for questioning regarding the dissemination of misinformation related to the case.
According to an officer from the Kolkata Police, the summoned individuals are being investigated for their role in sharing inaccurate information about the incident, which has had far-reaching implications. The decision to summon these individuals comes in the wake of increasing concerns that the spread of false narratives and sensitive information could severely compromise the investigation, as well as pose a threat to public order.
Dr. Kunal Sarkar, a respected cardiologist, confirmed receiving the summons but clarified that he is currently out of town. He expressed his uncertainty about the reasons for the summons, suggesting that his social media comments might have triggered national and international reactions, potentially leading to the police’s interest. Dr. Sarkar stated, “Yes, I have received the summons. But at the moment, I am out of town and have informed the Kolkata Police about that. I do not know why they have called me, but it seems that some of my comments on social media have elicited certain reactions nationally and internationally… maybe because of that.”
On the other hand, Dr. Subarna Goswami, the deputy chief medical officer of Purba Bardhaman district, noted that he had not yet received the official summons. He assured his willingness to fully cooperate with the authorities, emphasizing that he had not been involved in revealing the identity of the victim or in spreading any rumors. Dr. Goswami remarked, “I am yet to receive anything. I do not know why Kolkata Police will issue summons to me when they are not investigating the case. I have been saying that I will cooperate with the probe in every possible manner. I didn’t reveal the identity of the victim or spread any rumour.”
Meanwhile, Locket Chatterjee, a prominent BJP leader, mentioned that she had not received any summons from the police. She criticized the police’s approach, suggesting that their efforts would have been better spent on the investigation itself. Chatterjee commented, “It would have been better if they had shown the same promptness while investigating the case. Everyone wants justice for the girl.”
The Kolkata Police Commissioner, Vineet Goyal, in a press conference held on Friday, highlighted the detrimental impact of rumor-mongering on the ongoing investigation. He expressed concern that the widespread misinformation was not only hindering the progress of the investigation but also creating a risk to law and order. Commissioner Goyal underscored the importance of maintaining the integrity of the investigation and called for responsible communication from all parties involved.
As the investigation continues, the police’s focus remains on ensuring justice for the victim while also addressing the challenges posed by misinformation. The summonses issued to these high-profile individuals reflect the authorities’ determination to hold accountable those who may be contributing to the spread of harmful information.
