The shocking rape and murder of a trainee doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital on August 9, 2024, has ignited a series of protests, political maneuvers, and legal actions across the country. The incident has become a flashpoint for discussions on women’s safety, legal reforms, and political accountability in West Bengal.
West Bengal Governor Refers Anti-Rape Bill to President
In a significant development, West Bengal Governor CV Anand Bose has sent the ‘Aparajita Woman and Child (West Bengal Criminal Laws and Amendment) Bill 2024’ to President Droupadi Murmu for her assent. This bill, passed unanimously by the state assembly on September 3, proposes severe penalties for rape convicts, including the death penalty for cases resulting in the victim’s death or a vegetative state. This legislative move is a response to the horrific crime that has shocked the nation.
Protests and Public Outrage
On September 7, as the Hindu festival of Ganesh Chaturthi was being celebrated, Kolkata saw a surge in protests demanding justice for the victim. Activists and residents gathered to sign protest boards, calling for accountability and swift justice. The outcry over the handling of the case has been palpable, with many questioning the effectiveness of the local police and government officials.
Political Reactions and Allegations
The political landscape in West Bengal has been heavily influenced by the case. BJP leaders have intensified their criticism of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, accusing her and the Kolkata police of mishandling the case. BJP leader Dilip Ghosh has called for action against former RG Kar principal Sandip Ghosh, alleging corruption and involvement in cover-ups. Additionally, BJP has held chakka jams and demonstrations, disrupting traffic and demanding the Chief Minister’s resignation.
On the other hand, TMC leader Derek O’Brien has questioned the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for delays in filing a chargesheet. The delay has further fueled public and political frustration. Furthermore, allegations have been made against the Kolkata police for offering bribes to the victim’s family to silence them, claims that have been contested by the police and the Trinamool Congress.
Legal Proceedings and Investigations
The investigation into the case is ongoing, with the CBI facing criticism for its slow progress. A court in Sealdah recently rapped the CBI for delaying proceedings related to the bail application of suspect Sanjay Roy. Roy, who has been denied bail and remains in judicial custody until September 20, has denied involvement in the crime during a polygraph test.
The Supreme Court is scheduled to review the case on September 9, focusing on the CBI’s investigation. The court will assess the progress and address the non-cooperation issues alleged by the Centre.
National and Local Reactions
The case has garnered national attention, with leaders from other states, including Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, criticizing the West Bengal government’s handling of the situation. Patel has emphasized the need for prompt action, while Meghwal has questioned the lack of fast-track courts for crimes against women in the state.
Additionally, the National Task Force has created four sub-groups to address concerns related to doctor safety and institutional infrastructure, signaling a broader effort to prevent such incidents in the future.
Upcoming Protests and Actions
As the one-month mark of the crime approaches, thousands of women are expected to participate in the third ‘Reclaim the Night’ protest on September 8. This protest aims to demand justice for the victim and highlight ongoing issues of women’s safety.
The case continues to unfold, with every new update adding to the urgency and complexity of the situation. The public, political figures, and legal authorities are all grappling with the ramifications of this tragic event, striving for justice and systemic change.