CBI Seeks Court’s Nod for Polygraph Test in Kolkata Doctor Murder Case
On Thursday, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) sought court permission to conduct a polygraph test on former RG Kar Medical College principal Sandip Ghosh and four other doctors, according to CBI sources cited by news agency ANI. This development is part of the ongoing investigation into the rape and murder of a junior doctor at the college.
‘SC Heard Our Voice,’ Says Junior Doctor Amid Protests
Shivangi Singh, a junior doctor at AIIMS Nagpur, expressed optimism following the Supreme Court’s intervention in the doctors’ protests. “Doctors are asking for one thing: that the Supreme Court address our concerns,” Singh said. She noted that the formation of a national task force to safeguard healthcare workers is a positive step. “Things have started moving, and we hope for a favourable outcome,” she added.
Mamata Banerjee’s Chief Advisor Urges PM Modi for Tougher Anti-Rape Laws
Alapan Bandyopadhyay, chief advisor to West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee, revealed that the CM has written to Prime Minister Modi regarding the escalating rape cases across the country. In her letter, Banerjee highlighted that nearly 90 rapes occur daily in India, calling for urgent central legislation and the establishment of fast-track courts to deliver justice within 15 days for such heinous crimes.
RML College Doctors to Resume Duties After 11-Day Strike Ends
The Resident Doctors’ Association (RDA) of Dr. RML Hospital in Delhi announced the suspension of their 11-day strike in response to the Supreme Court’s intervention on the safety of healthcare workers. The RDA issued a statement confirming that doctors would resume their duties from 8 AM on August 23.
“In light of the developments regarding our demands and the Supreme Court addressing our concerns, we declare the strike to be suspended. The incident at RG Kar Medical College has exposed the unfortunate working conditions of residents across the country. We urge all residents to resume services,” the statement read.
AIIMS RDA General Secretary Praises Court’s Intervention
The General Secretary of the Resident Doctors’ Association at AIIMS Delhi echoed similar sentiments after the strike was called off, acknowledging the relief provided by the Supreme Court’s intervention.
He noted that the High Court’s transfer of the RG Kar case to the CBI was the first significant step, followed by the Supreme Court’s suo-motu cognizance of the issue. “Our protest and struggle for justice will continue, but our doctors will rejoin duty today itself,” he stated.
The 11-day strike was part of a nationwide protest by medical professionals demanding better safety measures after the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College.
AIIMS Doctors End 11-Day Strike After Supreme Court Appeal for Safety of Healthcare Workers
Following an appeal by the Supreme Court and a mandate to the Center to guarantee the safety of medical workers in public hospitals, doctors at AIIMS have called off their 11-day strike.
The AIIMS, New Delhi Resident Doctors’ Association (RDA) released a statement saying, “We have decided to call off the strike in the interest of the nation and in the spirit of public service.” We truly appreciate the Supreme Court’s attention to the safety concerns of healthcare professionals across the country and its consideration of the RG Kar Medical College event.”
BJP Leaders Demand CM Mamata Banerjee’s Resignation Amid Protests
In West Bengal, demonstrations broke out, spearheaded by BJP officials and supporters, who demanded that the victim of the RG Kar Medical College event receive justice and that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee step down. Suvendu Adhikari, the leader of the opposition, declared, “The Bengal BJP will continue this fight until justice is served and the Chief Minister steps down.”
Supreme Court Orders Steps to Safeguard Doctors; Next Hearing on September 5
In order to develop policies for safeguarding healthcare workers, the Union Health Secretary has been asked by the Supreme Court to consult with state chief secretaries and police chiefs. September 5, 2024 is the date of the case’s next hearing.
The Court also ordered all states and Union Territories to take precautions against violence in hospitals. According to Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, CISF officers have been stationed at RG Kar Medical College as part of the attempts to safeguard the region.
Doctors Must Return to Duty, CJI Urges Amid RG Kar Medical College Protest
Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud urged the medical community to resume work, saying, “It has been over 13 days since the incident took place,” as protests against the rape and death of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College continue.
In response to the hospital vandalism, the Supreme Court emphasised that although the government may use its legal authority, nonviolent demonstrations shouldn’t be interfered with. According to CJI Chandrachud, “The state should refrain from taking action against those who are peacefully protesting the incident at RG Kar College.”
Peaceful Protests Must Not Be Disrupted, Says Supreme Court
In response to the hospital vandalism, the Supreme Court emphasized that although the government may use its legal authority, nonviolent demonstrations shouldn’t be interfered with. According to CJI Chandrachud, “The state should refrain from taking action against those who are peacefully protesting the incident at RG Kar College.”
CBI and Kolkata Police Submit Status Reports
The CJI noted at the hearing the status reports provided by the Kolkata Police, who are looking into the vandalism that happened after the protests, and the CBI, which is in charge of the inquiry. A request for a polygraph test in connection with the current inquiry was also noted by the court.
CJI Questions Delay in FIR and Former Principal’s Actions
The 14-hour gap between when the crime was committed and when the FIR was filed concerned the Supreme Court. The previous principal of RG Kar Medical institution was sent to another institution, raising questions about whether or not he was trying to shield someone connected to the matter, according to CJI Chandrachud, who also questioned why the principal did not return to the college right away to register the FIR.
By Ankitaa Bal
Reporting for,
TRUE TO LIFE News Media