India Today has obtained a previously unreleased birthday letter from West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, dated 2022, addressed to Dr. Sandip Ghosh, the former principal of RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The letter, part of Banerjee’s tradition of sending personal birthday wishes to prominent figures, has fueled speculation about Dr. Ghosh’s connections within the state administration and the ruling Trinamool Congress party.
The letter’s disclosure comes amid heightened scrutiny of Dr. Ghosh, who has been under investigation by the CBI in connection with the tragic rape and murder of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Hospital. The BJP has suggested that the letter underscores Dr. Ghosh’s influential ties with the Chief Minister and the ruling party, questioning the implications for the ongoing investigation.
According to sources, Dr. Ghosh was one of a select few who received such personal correspondence from Banerjee, indicating a close relationship with the state’s political leadership. BJP spokesperson Priyanka Tibrewal has highlighted this connection, suggesting that it may have influenced the recent decisions regarding Dr. Ghosh’s career.
Despite resigning amid public outrage over the horrific crime, Dr. Ghosh was swiftly reassigned to a senior role at the Calcutta National Medical College and Hospital. This move was met with criticism from protesters, leading the Calcutta High Court to intervene and place Dr. Ghosh on indefinite leave while revoking the transfer order.
Further complicating matters, the High Court has transferred the investigation into alleged financial misconduct at RG Kar Hospital to the CBI, following a petition by former deputy superintendent Akhtar Ali. Ali has accused Dr. Ghosh of involvement in several illegal activities, including the sale of unclaimed bodies.
The Supreme Court has also expressed concern over the delay in filing an FIR related to the case, questioning the actions of both Dr. Ghosh and the state government.
The release of this letter adds a new dimension to the unfolding controversy, intensifying calls for transparency and accountability in the handling of the case and Dr. Ghosh’s role in it.