Kolkata Doctor Rape-Murder Case: CBI Takes Over Investigation as Political and Public Outrage Escalates

News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/16th August 2024

The tragic rape and murder of a young doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital has ignited widespread outrage and political turmoil. On August 13, 2024, the Calcutta High Court mandated a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the case, following significant public and political pressure. This order came as a response to the horrific crime that has shocked the city and intensified scrutiny on local authorities.

The Federation of All India Medical Association (FAIMA) has called for a nationwide shutdown of outpatient department (OPD) services, starting Tuesday, to protest the incident. The call reflects the deep-seated frustration within the medical community over the brutal attack and the handling of the case. The victim, a young doctor, was found to have suffered severe injuries, including bleeding from multiple parts of her body, as detailed in the autopsy report.

Union Minister Giriraj Singh has been vociferous in his criticism of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, accusing her of attempting to influence the investigation. Singh has called for Banerjee’s resignation, labeling the incident as more gruesome than the notorious Nirbhaya gang rape case from Delhi. He has criticized Banerjee for not taking stronger action and for allegedly trying to obstruct the investigation.

The Calcutta High Court’s decision to transfer the case to the CBI was accompanied by a directive for all related documents to be handed over by 10 a.m. the following day. This step aims to ensure a thorough and impartial investigation, addressing the concerns that the local police might not be adequately addressing the complexities of the case.

In a related development, the Chief Justice of the Calcutta High Court raised questions about the recent appointment of the RG Kar Medical College principal to another government college position. The principal had resigned from RG Kar Medical College, taking moral responsibility, yet was swiftly reassigned, which has sparked further controversy. The Chief Justice instructed the principal to either submit a leave application or face a court order to vacate the new role.

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has also intervened by issuing notices to West Bengal’s Chief Secretary and Director General of Police, demanding a detailed report on the case. This move underscores the gravity of the situation and the broader concerns about human rights and safety in the region.

Political reactions have been varied, with Trinamool Congress leader Kunal Ghosh defending Chief Minister Banerjee by highlighting the difficult nature of such incidents and noting that similar crimes have occurred under previous regimes. Conversely, Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar has accused Banerjee of delaying the CBI investigation and urged for prompt action to ensure evidence preservation.

The case has also seen protests from junior doctors at RG Kar Medical College, who have questioned the Chief Minister’s seven-day deadline for solving the case. Demonstrations have spread to major hospitals in New Delhi, where medical students and professionals have joined the strike, emphasizing the widespread concern over the safety of healthcare workers and the need for justice.

As the investigation progresses, the accused, Sanjay Roy, who has a history of abusive behavior and multiple failed marriages, remains in custody. The case continues to evolve, with heightened scrutiny on both the local and national levels, reflecting the urgent demand for justice and effective action in the wake of this harrowing crime.