Kolkata rape-murder: Day after global protests, SC hearing today
The Supreme Court will hear on Monday the case related to the brutal rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor at the state-run RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata on August 9. A bench comprising Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud and Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra will oversee the proceedings. The hearing follows global "Reclaim the Night" protests, including thousands in Kolkata, demanding justice and safety for women in public spaces.
Why does this story matter?
The body of the victim was found on August 9 in RG Kar Medical College's seminar hall with severe injuries. A civic volunteer was arrested the next day. The case saw initial delays, with the Supreme Court on August 22 criticizing the Kolkata Police for their slow investigation. On August 13, the Calcutta High Court transferred the case to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), which began its probe on August 14.
What SC said earlier
The Supreme Court on August 9 labeled the incident as "horrific" and introduced further steps to enhance safety in the healthcare sector. It ordered the creation of a 10-member National Task Force to establish protocols for protecting doctors and healthcare workers nationwide. The court also urged striking doctors, protesting in support of the victim, to resume their duties, emphasizing that "justice and healthcare must continue."
Global outrage
The brutal crime sparked gave global protests, with over 130 demonstrations taking place in 25 countries, including major cities like Stockholm, Sydney, and New York. On Sunday night, a 14-kilometre human chain was formed, extending from Shyambazar in North Kolkata to Sodepur in the suburbs. Thousands of people, including rival football fans from East Bengal, Mohun Bagan, and Mohammedan Sporting, came together, standing side by side in solidarity, united in their demand for justice.
Political clash between Centre, state
A political clash has erupted between the Centre and the West Bengal government amid the protests—with the Centre accusing the state of "unpardonable" non-cooperation in assisting the Central Industrial Security Force tasked with securing the hospital. The Centre—in its plea to the Supreme Court—described the lack of cooperation from the Trinamool Congress as "symptomatic of a systemic malaise." The Centre has urged the court to direct the state's full cooperation with the CISF or pursue contempt action against officials responsible.
