Kolkata Doctor's Brutal Murder: SC Takes Suo Motu Cognizance, Hearing on Tuesday

The Supreme Court on Sunday (August 18, 2024) took suo motu cognisance of the rape and murder of a postgraduate trainee doctor at the R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata. A three-judge Bench headed by Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud is scheduled to hear the case, instituted on the court’s own motion, on Tuesday (August 20, 2024).

The Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, will hear the case. This comes after growing public pressure and accusations of mishandling by state authorities. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is already investigating the matter, which raises concerns about the safety of medical professionals, especially women, who often face vulnerabilities at work.

The apex court’s suo motu intervention follows an August 13 order of the Calcutta High Court which transferred the investigation to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) from the Kolkata Police. The police had arrested a civic volunteer in the case. The victim, a trainee doctor, was found brutally assaulted and murdered in the hospital's
seminar hall. A civic volunteer has been detained in connection with the crime. However, the victim's family and protestors allege gang rape and demand a thorough investigation to hold all perpetrators accountable.

An autopsy confirmed sexual assault before death.
The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has demanded justice for the deceased doctor, leading a nationwide strike and suspending non-essential medical services for 24 hours. Thousands of women participated in 'Reclaim The Night' marches across India, demanding justice for the victim.

The CBI has begun a psychological assessment of the accused, Sanjay Roy, with a team from the Central Forensic Science Laboratory (CFSL) in Delhi conducting tests in Kolkata.

Author: Aarya Kadam
News Writer