CBI Launches Probe into Kolkata Doctor’s Rape and Murder
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has assumed control of the investigation into a shocking case following an order from the Calcutta High Court. The court questioned the Kolkata Police’s rationale for registering the case as an unnatural death and criticized the delay in recording statements, particularly from former principal Sandip Ghosh.
Doctors’ Strike Sparks Nationwide Outrage
The Federation of Resident Doctors’ Association (FORDA) called off its indefinite strike after Union Health Minister JP Nadda assured them their demands would be addressed. The strike was a response to the horrific rape and murder of a female doctor at a medical college and hospital in Kolkata. Despite FORDA’s decision, other medical associations, such as the Federation of All India Medical Associations (FAIMA), vowed to continue their strike until concrete actions were taken.
During a meeting with the health minister, FORDA received assurances that no punitive action would be taken against protesting doctors. However, AIIMS Delhi reminded its doctors that such protests might be in contempt of a high court order, highlighting the tension between justice and legal constraints.
Mamata Banerjee’s Response Under Scrutiny
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee defended her response to the incident, stating that she had been in constant contact with Kolkata Police and the victim’s family. She claimed that the police were immediately dispatched to the hospital, and she assured the victim’s family that justice would be served. Banerjee asserted that the accused was apprehended within 12 hours following an extensive review of CCTV footage.
Political and Public Reactions Intensify
The incident has sparked widespread outrage across the political spectrum. Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury led a protest march, while Kolkata Police attempted to clarify misinformation, denying allegations that they had suggested the possibility of suicide to the victim’s family.
A CBI official confirmed the investigation’s takeover, with forensic and medical teams arriving from Delhi to ensure a thorough probe.
Since points 1 & 2 concern Kolkata Police, we wish to clarify:
1. Reports of KP informing the family about a possible suicide are false. The family confirmed the call did not come from KP
2. KP didn’t cremate the body of deceased. It was her family who cremated her. https://t.co/ktoVv8scjZ— Kolkata Police (@KolkataPolice) August 14, 2024
Calls for Justice Echo Nationwide
The heinous nature of the crime has drawn sharp criticism from across the country. CPI General Secretary D Raja condemned the incident, urging a detailed CBI investigation that could serve as a precedent for other states. Congress MP Rahul Gandhi expressed deep concern over the safety of women and the increasing number of crimes against them, questioning the effectiveness of existing laws. He emphasized the need for societal severe introspection and action.
The victim’s family, suspecting gang rape, highlighted discrepancies in the investigation, further intensifying public outrage.
♦Read More Calcutta High Court Orders CBI Enquiry in Rape and Murder of Female Doctor
A Nation Demands Accountability
Political leaders from various parties echoed the demand for swift justice. RJD MP Manoj Jha lamented that the country had not learned from past incidents like the Nirbhaya case, criticizing both the state government and society at large for the pervasive brutality.
As the investigation unfolds, the nation watches closely, demanding answers and accountability. The CBI’s involvement, alongside continued protests from medical professionals, underscores the gravity of the situation and the urgent need for justice.