Doctor rape-murder: Corruption case against ex-principal of RG Kar hospital
The Kolkata Police have filed a corruption investigation against Sandip Ghosh, the former principal of RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. This comes after the body of a 31-year-old post-graduate trainee doctor, who was raped and murdered was discovered in the hospital premises on August 9. According to reports, the state police are investigating financial irregularities at the hospital—which was raised in a complaint from June.
Financial misconduct allegations
The West Bengal government had escalated its response by forming a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the allegations against RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The team, led by Inspector General Pranab Kumar, includes high-ranking officials like Deputy Inspector General Syed Waquar Raza, DIG Soma Mitra Das of the Central Investigation Department, and Deputy Commissioner Indira Mukherjee of the Kolkata Police. Their primary task is to investigate any financial misconduct during Ghosh's tenure.
Ghosh under CBI scrutiny
Ghosh, who stepped down as the principal of RG Kar Medical College shortly after the tragic incident, is now under intense scrutiny by the Central Bureau of Investigation. He was interrogated for nearly 53 hours over four days regarding his actions post the doctor's death. The CBI's line of questioning has focused on his role after learning about the doctor's death, including who he contacted and why there was a delay in informing her parents.
Controversy over Ghosh's reappointment
Despite his resignation, the controversy surrounding Ghosh had continued to bubble. In response, the Calcutta High Court had stepped in, directing the state Health Department not to assign Ghosh to any other medical college until further notice. This order was issued following his brief and contentious appointment as the principal of Calcutta National Medical College and Hospital, which sparked protests from students and junior doctors.
Doctors on strike
Since August 12, doctors have been on an indefinite strike, suspending all elective and non-essential services including OPDs. On August 9, a 31-year-old trainee doctor's body was discovered in semi-naked condition at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The police later confirmed that she was raped before being killed, leading to nationwide outrage and demands for improved safety measures within hospitals. The Supreme Court has taken suo moto cognizance of the case and is set to hear it on Tuesday.
