NCW finds security, infrastructure lapses in Kolkata doctor's rape-murder case
The National Commission for Women (NCW) has identified significant shortcomings in security and infrastructure at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata. This revelation follows an investigation into the alleged rape and murder of the 31-year-old trainee doctor at the facility. The NCW's preliminary findings also indicate potential evidence tampering due to sudden renovations at the crime scene.
NCW's 2-member inquiry committee investigates case
The NCW formed a two-member inquiry committee to investigate the case, comprising of Delina Khondgup, an NCW Member, and Soma Chaudhary, an advocate appointed by the West Bengal State Legal Services Authority. The team arrived in Kolkata on August 12 and "has since been rigorously examining the circumstances surrounding the trainee doctor's death." Before the probe, the commission had previously written to Kolkata's Police Commissioner on August 10, urging immediate action and a thorough investigation into this distressing incident.
Read the release here
Security lapses and inadequate facilities at hospital
During its investigation, the NCW's inquiry committee discovered that no security guards were present during the incident. The team also found insufficient security for on-call duty interns, doctors, and nurses during night shifts. The hospital was found lacking in basic amenities for female staff members with substandard washrooms, inadequate lighting, and no security measures in place.
NCW urges corrective measures, doctors announce nationwide strike
In light of these findings, the NCW urged immediate corrective measures to prevent such incidents in the future. Concurrently, doctors across India have announced a nationwide withdrawal of services from 6:00am on Saturday, August 17 to 6:00am Sunday, August 18. The Indian Medical Association (IMA) confirmed that routine OPDs and elective surgeries will not take place during this period, but other essential services will continue as usual.
