Amid escalating nationwide protests over the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, the Supreme Court of India, led by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, has initiated a suo motu case to address the incident. The court has constituted a National Task Force, including Surgeon Vice Admiral RK Sarin and Doctor Nageshwar Reddy of the Asian Institute of Gastroenterology, to oversee the investigation and recommend measures to prevent future occurrences.
The Supreme Court has criticized existing laws for failing to address institutional safety standards for doctors and medical workers. CJI Chandrachud emphasized the urgent need for systemic change, stating that the nation cannot wait for another tragic event to prompt action. The Court also stressed the importance of evolving a national consensus through stakeholder consultations.
West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose has traveled to Delhi to discuss the issue with President Droupadi Murmu and national leaders. During a Raksha Bandhan event at Raj Bhavan, Bose condemned the deteriorating state of democracy in West Bengal and called for a commitment to protecting women.
The parents of the trainee doctor have expressed frustration over attempts to silence protestors and criticized the handling of the case by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. As a result of the protests, health services nationwide have been disrupted, with doctors’ strikes now in their 10th day. In response, the Union Health Ministry has approved a 25% increase in security at central hospitals.
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has taken over the case from Kolkata police, following a Calcutta High Court order. The CBI has been authorized to conduct a polygraph test on the accused, Sanjoy Roy.
The Trinamool Congress (TMC) government in West Bengal faces scrutiny for its alleged efforts to suppress protests. Senior TMC leader Arup Chakraborty reportedly threatened doctors and critics of Mamata Banerjee, further fueling the controversy.
As the Supreme Court’s hearings continue, the nation watches closely for further developments and reforms in response to this high-profile case.
