23 Deaths Reported Due to Ongoing Doctors’ Strike
On Monday, senior advocate Kapil Sibal reported to the Supreme Court that the ongoing doctors’ strike in Kolkata, which followed the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Hospital in August, has resulted in the deaths of 23 individuals. Sibal, who represents West Bengal, noted that the state government has submitted a status report on the investigation into the tragic incident.
Supreme Court Reviews Investigation Status
While the state government has provided the report, the solicitor general stated he had not yet received it. The Supreme Court bench, led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud and including Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra, examined the report, which was submitted under seal.
Centre Seeks Action Over Security Issues
The Centre has urged the Supreme Court to address the West Bengal government’s alleged failure to support the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), responsible for security at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The Union home ministry’s application highlighted the Trinamool Congress (TMC) government’s perceived lack of cooperation and requested that state authorities be directed to fully support the CISF.
Junior Doctors’ Strike and Investigation Progress
Junior doctors have been on strike since August 9, demanding justice for the trainee doctor who was allegedly raped and murdered. The Calcutta High Court transferred the case to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Nearly a month into the CBI’s investigation, only one arrest has been made—Sanjay Roy.
Challenges in the CBI Investigation
A CBI official revealed that the probe has faced difficulties due to missing evidence from the crime scene, complicating efforts to connect critical elements of the case and slowing progress. Additionally, it was disclosed that Dr. Sandip Ghosh, the former principal of RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, ordered the demolition of a restroom and toilet near the seminar room on August 10, the day after the body was discovered.