Amid the ongoing uproar over the horrific rape and murder of a trainee doctor in Kolkata, the Supreme Court today expressed its profound concern, stating that “the nation cannot wait for another rape for changes on the ground.” The bench, led by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, voiced strong dissatisfaction with both the West Bengal government and the authorities at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital for their handling of the case.
Criticism of Procedural Delays
During the hearing, CJI Chandrachud criticized the significant procedural lapses, notably the delayed filing of the FIR and mishandling of the crime scene by hospital administration and local police. “Why was the FIR registered three hours after the body was handed over for cremation?” questioned the Supreme Court, highlighting the sluggish and inappropriate responses to the crime.
Scrutiny of Hospital Administration and Police
The apex court’s scrutiny extended to the actions of the hospital’s administration and the local police. “What was the principal doing? The body was handed late to the parents, FIR was not filed on time, and vandals were allowed to enter the hospital,” the Chief Justice remarked, signaling severe lapses in maintaining the integrity of the crime scene and in prompt legal action.
Kapil Sibal, representing the West Bengal government, argued that a case of unnatural death was promptly initiated and a board with a judicial magistrate was set up. However, Justice Chandrachud countered, emphasizing that it was primarily the hospital’s duty to file the FIR, especially in the absence of the victim’s parents.
Questions on FIR and Handling of the Body
Justice JB Pardiwala inquired about the specifics of the FIR filing, revealing that the first informant was the father of the victim, who filed the FIR at 11:45 pm. This came after the victim’s body was reportedly handed over for cremation at 8:30 pm, a timeline that raised further questions about the delay and the actions of hospital authorities during this critical period.
Resignation and Reassignment of the Principal
Further controversy surrounds Sandip Ghosh, the principal of RG Kar Medical College, who resigned just two days following the incident and has since been under intense scrutiny. Despite his resignation, Ghosh was briefly reassigned as principal of another medical college, a move that was met with significant protest from students and junior doctors. The Calcutta High Court has since instructed the West Bengal Health Department not to appoint Mr. Ghosh to any other medical college until further notice.
