NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court took a firm stand on Tuesday during a suo motu hearing of the high-profile rape and murder case involving a postgraduate doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata. The case has sparked nationwide protests about the safety of women in the workplace. The court criticized the Mamata Banerjee-led West Bengal government for its sluggish response and instructed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), which is now handling the investigation, to submit its report by Thursday.
The top court expressed disbelief over how the state of West Bengal allowed a mob to vandalize the hospital where the gruesome crime took place. “It was the police’s duty to secure the hospital 24/7, yet the crime scene was compromised,” the court remarked. The judges pointed out that, initially, the medical college’s principal attempted to present the crime as a suicide, a stance that deeply disturbed the court.
Key points made by the Supreme Court:
- Criticism of Kolkata Police: The court questioned how a mob of thousands could have entered RG Kar Medical College on the night of August 14-15 without the knowledge of the police, allowing vandalism to occur.
- Concern over State Action: The court cautioned the West Bengal government against suppressing protestors, doctors, and civil society members who were demanding justice, calling this moment “a time of national catharsis.”
- Delay in Filing FIR: The court rebuked both the police and hospital authorities for the 12-hour delay in registering the FIR. “This delay is unexplained,” Chief Justice DY Chandrachud stated.
- Impact on Women’s Rights: The court emphasized the broader implications of the case, noting that if women cannot feel safe at work, it undermines their right to equality. Chief Justice Chandrachud stressed that this case is not just about a specific crime but affects healthcare institutions across India.
- Violation of the Victim’s Dignity: The court condemned the circulation of the victim’s name and graphic details, stating that this was a breach of her dignity.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the central government, declared, “West Bengal cannot remain in denial; there has been a total breakdown of law and order.” Chief Justice Chandrachud urged the state to ensure that those responsible for the hospital attack are prosecuted, warning against further delays in justice.
The apex court’s intervention comes in response to mounting public outrage, led by strikes and protests from doctors and medical associations, including the Indian Medical Association (IMA). The IMA organized a nationwide strike, halting non-essential medical services for 24 hours, while “Reclaim The Night” marches were held across the country demanding justice.
The case stems from the tragic incident in which a 32-year-old postgraduate trainee doctor was raped and murdered while on duty at RG Kar Medical College. Her body was found on August 9, sparking immediate public outcry. A civic volunteer has since been arrested, and the Calcutta High Court has transferred the investigation to the CBI following widespread dissatisfaction with the local police’s handling of the case.
