On Tuesday, the Calcutta High Court directed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to take over the investigation into the sexual assault and murder of a post-graduate trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata. The court has mandated that all documents related to the case be submitted to the CBI by 10 am on Wednesday.
Recent Developments:
Protests and Nationwide Impact: In response to the incident, doctors and medical students organized a protest at AIIMS Delhi. The Federation of All India Medical Association (FAIMA) has called for a nationwide shutdown of outpatient departments (OPD) services to show solidarity against the assault and murder.
Court’s Inquiry into Former Principal: The Calcutta High Court has requested Sandip Ghosh, the former principal of RG Kar Medical College, to submit a leave application. Ghosh had resigned from RG Kar College amid controversy and was soon appointed as the principal at Calcutta National Medical College and Hospital. The court questioned the ethics of this appointment and has given Ghosh a deadline to submit his leave application, warning of further orders if he fails to comply.
Details of the Incident:
On August 9, the body of a female post-graduate trainee doctor was found in a seminar hall at RG Kar Medical College. The investigation revealed evidence of rape and murder, with scratch marks on the body suggesting a struggle. The victim’s family has alleged that she was sexually assaulted and murdered.
Response from Indian Medical Association (IMA):
Union Health Minister JP Nadda met with a delegation from the Indian Medical Association (IMA) to discuss the case. The IMA has called for a comprehensive and unbiased investigation, along with measures to improve safety for doctors, particularly women, in their workplaces.
Ongoing Reactions: The tragic incident has sparked significant national outrage, with demands for justice and better protection for medical professionals.