The National Commission for Women (NCW) has raised concerns about significant lapses in security, infrastructure, and the investigation into the rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata.
Key Findings from NCW:
Security Lapses: No security guards were present during the incident, leaving medical staff, including interns, doctors, and nurses, vulnerable during night shifts.
Tampering with Evidence: The NCW alleged that sudden renovations at the crime scene could have tampered with potential evidence. The crime scene should have been sealed immediately by the Kolkata Police.
Lack of Basic Amenities: The hospital was found lacking basic amenities for women medical staff, such as clean washrooms, proper lighting, and adequate security measures.
Incomplete Investigation: The NCW highlighted concerns about the investigation, noting that the questioning of the former principal, Dr. Sandip Ghosh, who resigned after the incident, remains incomplete.
NCW’s Actions:
The NCW took suo motu cognizance of the incident after media reports and initiated an inquiry. A two-member committee, including NCW member Delina Khondgup and advocate Soma Chaudhary, was formed to investigate the circumstances surrounding the trainee doctor’s death. The committee has been rigorously examining the situation since August 12.
IMA’s Nationwide Strike:
In response to the incident, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) announced a 24-hour nationwide strike from 6 AM on August 17 to 6 AM on August 18. Routine OPDs and elective surgeries will not be conducted during this period, although essential services will continue.
The incident, which occurred on August 9, has sparked nationwide protests by the medical fraternity.