The brutal rape and murder of a junior doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital continues to grip the nation. This article provides a new update on the Supreme Court hearing held on October 15, 2024, addressing crucial developments in the case, including the CBI investigation, hospital security measures, and the ongoing protests by junior doctors.
CBI Investigation and Chargesheet
The Supreme Court acknowledged the CBI’s fifth status report, confirming the filing of a chargesheet against the accused, Sanjoy Roy, under Sections 64, 66, and 103(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (BNS). The court noted that the jurisdictional magistrate has taken cognizance of the chargesheet and scheduled the framing of charges for November 4. The CBI informed the court that the investigation is ongoing, exploring the possibility of others being involved in the crime, potential tampering with evidence, and alleged financial irregularities at the hospital during the tenure of former principal Sandip Ghosh. The CBI also confirmed they are in contact with the deceased’s parents.
Hospital Security and Infrastructure Upgrades
The West Bengal government presented its affidavit detailing the progress made on hospital security and infrastructure upgrades. The government claimed 90-98% completion of work across 28 state-run medical colleges and hospitals. The remaining work at RG Kar hospital is expected to be finished by October 31, with other government medical colleges completing upgrades by October 25. The affidavit highlighted infrastructural work worth ₹123 crore and the training of 1514 security personnel, including 910 women. The Integrated Hospital Management System (IHMS) has replaced the Rogi Kalyan Samithi scheme, with a pilot project underway to track every step of patient treatment. However, senior advocate Karuna Nundy, representing the doctors, challenged these claims, arguing that the infrastructural work is not progressing at the stated pace.
Civic Volunteers and Political Patronage
The Supreme Court expressed concerns regarding the recruitment process of civic volunteers, suggesting it could be a means of “granting political patronage.” The court directed the West Bengal government to submit a detailed affidavit outlining the hiring process, including the source of authority, modalities, candidate qualifications, background verification procedures, assigned duties, payment structure, and budgetary allocations. The court also ordered the government to explain the steps taken to prevent civic volunteers from being posted in sensitive institutions.
Junior Doctors’ Protest and Hunger Strike
The court was informed that all doctors, except eight participating in a hunger strike, have resumed work. Ms. Nundy requested the inclusion of junior and senior doctors in the state’s security audit committee. Mr. Dwivedi, representing the West Bengal government, opposed this, stating the committee is already in constant consultation with doctors. The article also highlighted the ongoing hunger strike by junior doctors demanding justice and improved workplace safety. This protest has entered its 11th day, with several doctors being hospitalized due to deteriorating health conditions.
National Task Force and Safety Protocols
The Supreme Court expressed dissatisfaction with the progress of the court-constituted National Task Force (NTF) tasked with framing a national protocol for the safety of medical professionals. The court noted the NTF hasn’t met since September 9, 2024. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta explained the delay, stating the NTF aims to provide long-lasting solutions. The court recorded “no substantial progress” and directed the Centre to ensure the NTF completes its work within a reasonable timeframe, submitting provisional recommendations within three weeks.
Social Media and Victim Identity Protection
Advocate Vrinda Grover informed the court that, following previous directions, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MEITY) appointed a nodal officer to address grievances and remove online posts disclosing the deceased’s identity.
Conclusion and Next Steps
The Supreme Court hearing on October 15, 2024, witnessed significant developments in the Kolkata doctor rape-murder case. The court’s focus on the CBI investigation, hospital security, civic volunteer recruitment, and the NTF’s progress indicates a commitment to ensuring justice and preventing similar tragedies. The ongoing protests by junior doctors underscore the urgent need for enhanced safety measures and accountability within the medical profession. The next hearing after the Diwali break is expected to provide further updates on these critical issues.
