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Citation: Re: Alleged Rape and Murder of Trainee Doctor in RG Kar Medical College Hospital, Kolkata and related issues | SMW(Crl) 2/2024
Facts of the Case:
On August 9, 2024, the body of a post-graduate trainee doctor was found in the seminar room of RG Kar Medical College Hospital in Kolkata. Initial investigations were handled by the Kolkata Police, who arrested a civic volunteer in connection with the crime. On August 13, the Calcutta High Court transferred the investigation to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) due to dissatisfaction with the local police’s handling of the case.
The Supreme Court of India took suo motu cognizance of the case on August 20, 2024, to address systemic issues related to the safety of medical professionals in the country.
20th August 2024, Developments:
The Apex Court expressed deep concern over the safety conditions for medical professionals, especially women, in hospitals across India. Chief Justice DY Chandrachud emphasized that the matter raised systemic issues beyond the specific incident in Kolkata.
- Creation of National Task Force (NTF): The Supreme Court constituted a ten-member National Task Force headed by Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, to make recommendations on ensuring the safety and well-being of medical professionals.
- Order on Safety Measures: The Court outlined various systemic deficiencies in hospitals, including inadequate security, poor working conditions, and insufficient facilities. It directed the formation of the NTF to address these issues.
- Request to Doctors: The Court urged protesting doctors to resume their duties, stating that their abstention from work was affecting public access to essential medical services.
- Questioning State Authorities: The Court questioned the West Bengal government about the handling of the investigation, the delay in registering the FIR, and the vandalism that occurred during protests.
22nd August 2024 Developments:
- Interim Safety Measures: The Supreme Court directed the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to coordinate with State Governments and Union Territories to implement basic safety measures for medical professionals. This includes installing CCTV cameras and distress call systems in hospitals.
- NTF’s Role: The Court instructed the NTF to consider suggestions from doctors’ associations and other stakeholders. A web portal will be established for stakeholders to submit their concerns and recommendations.
- Further Directions: The Court ordered that no adverse actions be taken against doctors participating in protests. It also criticized the West Bengal police for shortcomings in the investigation.
- Recommendations from Intervenors: The Court noted suggestions from various intervenors, including the introduction of distress call systems linked to police stations and institutional FIRs to ensure timely registration of crimes.
