The horrific death of a trainee doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital has sent shockwaves across India. The postmortem report, as reported by India Today, unveiled a grim picture of the victim’s final hours. It documented over 14 injuries across her head, face, neck, arms, and genitals, with evidence of forceful penetration confirming sexual assault. The report concluded that the cause of death was “manual strangulation associated with smothering.” Additionally, the presence of a “white, thick, viscid liquid” in the victim’s genitalia further corroborated the evidence of sexual assault. The autopsy also observed hemorrhaging in the lungs and blood clots throughout the body, but no signs of fractures were found. Blood and other bodily fluid samples have been sent for further analysis.
The Supreme Court has taken suo motu cognizance of the case and is scheduled to hear it on August 20. This comes amidst ongoing protests by junior doctors across various states, including West Bengal and Delhi, who are demanding improved safety measures for healthcare professionals. In Kolkata, the CBI is continuing its investigation, summoning individuals including Sandip Ghosh, the former principal of RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The CBI has sought details regarding Ghosh’s phone calls made before and after the incident.
The Kolkata Police has issued summons to TMC MP Derek O’ Brien, former BJP MP Locket Chatterjee, and renowned doctors Dr Kunal Sarkar and Dr Subarna Goswami for allegedly spreading rumors and disclosing the identity of the victim. The police are also investigating allegations of a cover-up attempt, including the initial dissemination of a suicide theory.
The West Bengal government has announced several measures to enhance safety for women in workplaces, especially in state-run hospitals, including designated retiring rooms and CCTV-monitored ‘safe zones.’ In response to the incident, over 70 Padma awardee doctors have written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging swift enactment of a special law to address violence against healthcare personnel and implementation of improved safety protocols in medical facilities. They have requested an ordinance to ensure the “harshest possible punishment” for anyone involved in violence against healthcare workers.
The incident has sparked widespread outrage and calls for justice for the victim and her family. It has also highlighted the urgent need for systemic changes to ensure the safety and well-being of healthcare professionals who often face threats and violence in the line of duty. The CBI investigation is ongoing, and the nation awaits justice for the victim and a comprehensive solution to ensure the safety of doctors and other medical professionals.
