The brutal rape and murder of a 31-year-old doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College has shocked the nation, prompting a high-profile CBI investigation. With serious lapses in the hospital’s administration, and widespread protests by medical professionals, the case has raised urgent questions abou
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has taken charge of the investigation into the rape and murder of a 31-year-old doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital following an order from the Calcutta High Court. The court, highlighting significant lapses in the hospital’s administration, noted that the investigation needed to be conducted by an independent body to prevent any tampering with evidence. This case has not only shocked the nation but has also sparked widespread protests among medical professionals and concerns over the handling of the investigation by state authorities.
Key Developments and Court Observations:
- The Calcutta High Court expressed its concern over the lack of a proactive response from Dr. Sandip Ghosh, the former Principal of RG Kar Medical College. The court stated, “It is disheartening that he was not proactive.”
- Dr. Ghosh resigned following social media backlash after the incident but was swiftly appointed as Principal of Calcutta National Medical College. The court questioned the urgency of this appointment, stating, “It is not clear as to what was the urgency in doing so.”
- The court emphasized that Dr. Ghosh should have been the first person to have his statement recorded by investigators, saying, “You should have recorded his statement, why protect him? There is something amiss.”
- The court also noted the lack of support from the hospital administration towards the victim and her family, stating, “The hospital administration was not with the victim or the family of the victim.”
Investigation Details:
- West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee initially set a deadline for the Kolkata Police to complete their investigation by Sunday. However, the Calcutta High Court, noting the lack of significant progress, transferred the case to the CBI.
- Sanjoy Roy, a civic volunteer at the hospital and an outsider frequenting the premises, was arrested for the crime. The court was informed that after committing the crime, Roy went to a police barrack and slept until the next morning.
- The initial autopsy report ruled out suicide and indicated that the doctor was sexually assaulted before being murdered. The report detailed horrific injuries, stating, “There was bleeding from both her eyes and mouth and injuries over the face. The victim was also bleeding from her private parts.”
Background on the Accused, Sanjoy Roy:
- Sanjoy Roy, a 33-year-old trained boxer and a civic volunteer with the Kolkata Police since 2019, has a history of violent behavior and addiction to pornography. His mobile phone reportedly contained disturbing and violent content.
- Roy had been married at least four times, with each marriage ending in separation. Neighbors recounted that his first wife was from Behala, the second from Park Circus, the third from Barrackpore, and the fourth from Alipore.
- Roy’s mother, Malati Roy, denied the allegations against her son, claiming his innocence.
Protests and Reactions:
- Junior doctors at RG Kar Medical College, as well as across West Bengal and India, have initiated protests and strikes demanding justice for the victim. The Federation of Resident Doctors’ Association (FORDA) stated that the strike would continue until their demands are met.
- The protests have led to a significant disruption of Outpatient Department (OPD) services and non-emergency surgeries. Resident doctors assert that the strike will not stop “unless justice is served and our demands are met.”
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