Tragedy struck the medical community in Kolkata when Doctor, a young and aspiring doctor, was found dead under mysterious circumstances at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The incident has sent shockwaves across the nation, sparking widespread outrage and demands for justice. This article delves into the circumstances surrounding Doctor’s death, the ongoing investigation, and the responses from the medical community, hospital administration, and government.
Who was the Doctor?
Doctor was a 31-year-old second-year postgraduate trainee pursuing an MD in Chest Medicine at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata. She was a dedicated and aspiring doctor, loved by her peers and respected by her seniors.
Circumstances of Death: What Happened?
After midnight, the victim, along with four colleagues, ordered food and celebrated Neeraj Chopra’s silver medal win. Her colleagues left, but she stayed back to study in the seminar room. She was last seen sleeping in the room at around 3 AM. At 4 AM, the accused entered the seminar room, sexually assaulted her, and strangled her when she tried to resist. On August 9, 2024, 7:30 AM Doctor’s body was found in a seminar room on the third floor of the college campus. Initial reports suggested she died under mysterious circumstances, sparking widespread shock and outrage.
Security Lapses: Hospital’s Response
The incident highlights glaring security lapses in the hospital. Doctors have demanded better security measures, including CCTV cameras, adequate police personnel, and restricted entry into doctor’s rooms and seminar rooms. The hospital administration has promised to enhance security.
Protests and Demands: Medical Community’s Reaction
The medical community has come together to demand justice for Doctor. Doctors across the country have protested, seeking immediate action against the culprits. The Indian Medical Association and other medical organizations have extended their support.
Suspects and Arrests: Police Action
The police have launched an investigation into Doctor’s death. An FIR has been lodged, and a suspect, Sanjay Roy, has been arrested. The probe is ongoing, with authorities collecting evidence and questioning witnesses. A torn earphone found in the seminar room where the doctor’s body was discovered played a crucial role in identifying Sanjay Roy. CCTV footage captured Roy entering the emergency building at 4 AM with a Bluetooth device hanging around his neck. When he exited the building 40 minutes later, the earphone was missing. It was later found paired with his mobile phone, leading to his identification and arrest.
Autopsy Report: Injuries and Cause of Death
The official postmortem report, released late on Friday, confirmed sexual assault on the 31-year-old doctor. The report highlighted multiple injuries and signs of struggle on the body, including blood stains on the face, eyes, and nose, scratches on various parts, and bleeding from private parts. There were also injuries on her lips, abdomen, right hand, and fingers, and her collarbone was found broken.
College Administration’s Role: Accountability
The college administration faces questions about its role in ensuring student safety. An internal inquiry committee has been set up to investigate the incident and identify lapses.
Government Response: Action Taken
Dr. Manas Gumta, former General Secretary of the Association of Health Service Doctors, has called the incident extremely serious and demanded an investigation by a high-level team or judicial committee. He alleges that the police are trying to cover up the case by suggesting it was a suicide, which he believes is false. He has called for an expert team from outside the college to conduct the postmortem. The government has assured swift action and justice for Doctor. The Health Minister has promised to take necessary measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
Justice for Doctor: Ongoing Efforts
The medical community, civil society, and authorities continue to demand justice for Doctor. Efforts are underway to ensure that those responsible are held accountable and that measures are taken to prevent such tragedies.
The tragic death of Doctor has exposed the dark underbelly of security lapses and vulnerabilities in medical institutions. As the investigation unfolds, it is imperative that justice is served, and measures are taken to prevent such incidents in the future. The medical community, authorities, and civil society must unite to ensure that Doctor’s legacy lives on, inspiring change and safeguarding the lives of medical professionals.