The Calcutta High Court has directed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to take over the investigation into the tragic rape and murder of a female doctor at RG Kar Medical College in Kolkata. This decision comes amidst growing concerns over the handling of the case by local authorities. The police have been ordered to hand over all relevant documents and evidence to the CBI by 10 AM on Wednesday, marking a significant turn in the investigation.
The incident has sparked outrage across the country, leading to a nationwide strike by doctors in solidarity with their colleagues in Kolkata. Medical professionals have halted elective services, including outpatient departments (OPDs) and non-emergency surgeries, in protest. The Federation of Resident Doctors’ Association (FORDA) announced the extension of their indefinite strike after discussions with the Union health ministry failed to bring about a satisfactory resolution.
The accused, Sanjay Roy, is reported to have a troubled domestic life and an addiction to violent pornography. Following the crime, Roy allegedly attempted to destroy evidence by washing his clothes before returning home to sleep. These revelations have further fueled public anger and demands for justice.
Political reactions to the incident have been strong. Union Health Minister JP Nadda expressed deep concern and welcomed the Calcutta High Court’s decision to transfer the investigation to the CBI. Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury accused the West Bengal government of trying to protect the accused, while Kunal Ghosh of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) criticized BJP leaders for not resigning over similar incidents in BJP-ruled states.
In response to the ongoing crisis, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) is set to meet with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to discuss safety measures for doctors. Meanwhile, AIIMS Delhi has issued a memorandum warning protesting doctors of disciplinary actions if they continue their protests on campus.
The Calcutta High Court has also directed the former principal of RG Kar Medical College, Dr. Sandip Ghosh, to take a long leave, raising questions about the delay in recording his statement. Additionally, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has requested a detailed report on the incident within two weeks.
The nationwide protests have severely disrupted medical services across major hospitals, including AIIMS Delhi and Nair Hospital in Mumbai. Patients are facing long queues and delays in care, with senior doctors stepping in to substitute for their striking junior counterparts.
As the CBI prepares to take over the investigation, around 25 people, including four doctors who had dinner with the victim on the night of the incident, have been called for questioning. A special CBI team is expected to arrive in Kolkata on Wednesday to begin their inquiry into this tragic case.