The Calcutta High Court has ordered the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to take over the investigation into the rape and murder of a trainee doctor in Kolkata, citing serious lapses in the ongoing probe. The decision came after a division bench, led by Chief Justice TS Sivagnanam, reviewed petitions filed by the victim’s parents and other concerned parties who were calling for a court-monitored investigation.
The victim’s parents expressed deep concerns that the current investigation might be compromised, potentially derailing justice. The court acknowledged these concerns, stating, “Under normal circumstances, we would have called for a report. But the case is peculiar. And the facts warrant appropriate orders without loss of time. Without significant progress in the investigation, we would be well justified in accepting the prayers by the victim’s parents that evidence would be destroyed.”
The tragic incident occurred on August 9, when the body of the postgraduate trainee was discovered in a seminar hall at RG Kar Hospital in Kolkata. The following day, a civic volunteer named Sanjay Roy was arrested in connection with the crime, and he later confessed to his involvement. The autopsy report revealed disturbing details, including signs of sexual assault and multiple injuries on the victim’s body.
The court also criticized the Principal of RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, Sandip Ghosh, for his lack of proactive measures following the incident. Facing backlash, Ghosh resigned from his position on Monday, only to be appointed as the principal of another college shortly thereafter.
This high-profile case has sparked widespread outrage and underscored the need for a thorough and transparent investigation to ensure justice for the victim. The transfer of the probe to the CBI is seen as a crucial step in restoring confidence in the investigative process and preventing any further mishandling of evidence.
