Kolkata principal resigns amid massive protests over doctor's rape-murder
The principal of Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College, Dr Sandip Ghosh, resigned on Monday after the public outcry over the rape and murder of a 31-year-old doctor on campus late Thursday. He told the media that he "cannot take the humiliation" on social media and that "political statements are being made in his name." Meanwhile, doctors across India have launched an indefinite strike, suspending all elective services until the investigation is completed.
Why does this story matter?
The body of a post-graduate trainee doctor was found in a seminar hall at the hospital on Friday morning. Her colleagues reported that she had gone there to rest after her meal. The rape and murder occurred between 3:00 am and 6:00 am. The suspect, a civic volunteer who frequently visited the hospital but had no professional connection to it, was arrested the following day.
Students provoked to ensure my removal: Dr Ghosh
Dr Ghosh, who has faced accusations of victim blaming following the tragic incident, denied making any such remarks. "Students are being provoked to ensure my removal. I want the accused to be punished. I am being defamed. I have not made such remarks," he said. "The girl who died was like my daughter. I am also a parent. As a parent, I am resigning," he added.
BJP leader's accusations against Dr Ghosh
Earlier, Bharatiya Janata Party leader Suvendu Adhikari criticized Dr Ghosh, calling for his suspension. "His misleading statements and carefree attitude in the aftermath of this tragic incident expose his indifference towards the victim," Adhikari wrote on X. He also suggested, "There is a fair chance that people close to him may have been involved and the Police are working hastily to wrap up the investigation so they don't get caught. His influence in the power circle is considerable," Adhikari added.
Accused in 14-day police custody
Separately, the accused was sent to a 14-day police custody under the charges of sections 64 (rape) and 103 (murder) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Additionally, the Kolkata Police have formed a Special Investigation Team to probe the crime. City Police Commissioner Vineet Goyal visited the medical establishment twice in three days and held meetings with representatives of the protesting junior doctors. He claimed the probe is "transparent" and urged people not to spread rumours.
FORDA's five demands
Notably, the Federation of Resident Doctors Association had announced the nationwide strike. The FORDA made five demands—immediate acceptance and action on the requests from the Kolkata college residents, and assurance against police brutality/ manhandling of protesting doctors. They also call for swift justice and compensation for the deceased's family, release and enforcement of a security protocol for healthcare workers, and the formation of an expert committee with medical community representatives to expedite the ratification of the Central Healthcare Protection Act.
