Trinamool Congress MP Sukhendu Shekhar Ray has been summoned by the Kolkata Police for allegedly spreading incorrect information regarding the investigation into the tragic rape and murder of a post-graduate trainee doctor at R G Kar Medical College and Hospital.
Ray, 75, had earlier questioned the investigation’s conduct, claiming that a dog squad was dispatched to the crime scene only three days after the victim’s body was discovered on August 9.
However, the Kolkata Police refuted this claim in an official statement, asserting, “The information regarding the sniffer dog being sent three days later is entirely false. A sniffer dog was dispatched twice—on August 9 and again on August 12. A notice has been issued to Shri Sukhendu Sekhar Ray.”
This development comes on the heels of notices being sent to BJP leader Locket Chatterjee and two doctors—Kunal Sarkar and Subarno Goswami—concerning misinformation related to the incident.
In a social media post made just 12 hours before receiving the summons, Ray had strongly criticized the investigation, calling for the custodial interrogation of both the former Principal of R G Kar Medical College, Dr. Sandip Ghosh, and Kolkata Police Commissioner Vineet Goyal. He also demanded an impartial investigation by the CBI.
“CBI must ensure a fair probe. Custodial interrogation of the ex-Principal and Police Commissioner is necessary to uncover the truth behind the suicide narrative, the demolition of the hall wall, and the alleged misuse of power. Why was the sniffer dog deployed three days later? There are countless such questions. They must be made to answer,” Ray posted.
Ray’s demand for Commissioner Goyal’s interrogation, however, did not gain unanimous support within the Trinamool Congress. Prominent party leader Kunal Ghosh publicly disagreed with Ray’s position.
“While I, too, demand justice in the R G Kar case, I strongly oppose the demand regarding the CP. Upon receiving information, he has done his best. Personally, the CP was committed to the investigation, which was progressing positively. Such statements, especially from a senior leader, are unfortunate,” Ghosh stated on social media.
Ray was among the first TMC leaders to announce his intention to participate in a nationwide protest over the incident. He shared his decision on social media, expressing his determination to stand with the protesters.
“Tomorrow, I will join the protesters. As a father and grandfather, I feel compelled to rise to this occasion. Enough with the violence against women. We must resist together, no matter the consequences,” Ray declared.
Ray’s outspoken stance has sparked speculation about his standing within the party. When questioned on social media about the potential repercussions of his actions, including possible expulsion from the Trinamool Congress, Ray responded confidently, “Do not worry about my fate. The blood of a freedom fighter runs in my veins. I am unconcerned.”
In addition to Ray, the Kolkata Police have also issued notices to BJP’s Locket Chatterjee and the two doctors.