We Want Justice
The brutal rape and murder of a postgraduate trainee doctor at R G Kar Medical College in Kolkata in August 2024 has sent shockwaves across the country. The incident involves multiple accused, including civic volunteer Sanjoy Roy. It has led to a high-profile investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). As the case unfolds, more details about other suspects, like Sandip Ghosh, have emerged, intensifying public interest and scrutiny.
Chronological Events in R G Kar
August 9-10, 2024:
At R G Kar Medical College, authorities found the semi-naked body of a 31-year-old female trainee doctor in a seminar hall. Preliminary inquiries indicated a vicious sexual assault and a murder that followed. CCTV footage and forensic evidence quickly linked Sanjoy Roy, a civic volunteer to the crime.
August 10, 2024:
Sanjoy Roy was arrested within 24 hours of the brutal incident. After discovering his Bluetooth earbuds at the crime site, the police took him into custody. At the crime scene, investigators discovered his blood under the victim’s fingernails. Sandip Ghosh, the principal of R.G. Kar was also detained for questioning due to his suspicious behavior and connection to Roy.
August 12, 2024:
As the investigation deepened, the evidence against Sandip Ghosh began to surface. Although the assault did not directly implicate Ghosh, his role in the aftermath of the incident has drawn significant scrutiny. His alleged failure to promptly report the crime to the authorities and the parents has raised suspicions about his involvement.
On this very day, due to the outrage of students and the whole nation, Ghosh resigned from his position in the R G Kar. However, his resignation took a dramatic turn when the WB Health Department appointed him as the principal of Calcutta National Medical College and Hospital (CNMCH).
This news shook the nation at its extremity and the outrage of protests all over the nation increased. Fortunately, on the very same day, Ghosh was asked to take leave and not to take the new appointment as a principal. The division bench of Chief Justice T.S. Sivagnanam made this clear.
August 13, 2024:
The Calcutta High Court ordered the transfer of the investigation from Kolkata Police to the CBI. Both Sanjoy Roy and Sandip Ghosh were placed under CBI custody for further interrogation.
August 13-19, 2024:
During this period, the CBI uncovered more evidence against Sanjoy Roy and Sandip Ghosh. CBI started their investigations thoroughly and they also appeared at the crime scene multiple times to gather more information. Ghosh, Roy, and 4 other doctors were taken into Polygraph Tests for Investigation. This is a lie-detector test, used to gather “truth” from the accused.
August 20, 2024:
Under intense questioning, Sanjoy Roy reportedly confessed to being present at the scene but denied any direct involvement in the rape and murder. His conflicting statements have added to the complexity of the case.
Investigations revealed that the ex-principal, Sandip Ghosh, committed many acts of misconduct during his tenure at the hospital. Being highly influential, he failed students on purpose, took money for hostel allotments, staff selection commission, and basically any work that happened in R G Kar.
August 26, 2024:
Roy retracted his initial confession and insisted on his innocence, stating that he was being framed. In his polygraph test, he continued to deny his involvement in the murder, though evidence and witness testimonies strongly suggested otherwise.
September 2, 2024:
Sandip Ghosh, failed to provide a consistent account of his actions on the night of the crime, leading to further suspicion. Also, his deliberate attempt at misconduct, intention to cover up the whole crime, and disclosing the victim’s name to the media led him to arrest.
State’s Stand in the R G Kar Rape and Murder Case
The West Bengal state government has faced significant criticism of the case initially. Many claimed that the police’s perceived slow response, the handling of evidence, the mob attack on the R G Kar doctors, and the alleged attempts to stop protests were supported by the state. After the CBI took over the case, the state government focused on managing public unrest instead of the investigation. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee criticized the crime. However, her administration is under scrutiny, especially for how it protects medical professionals.
The Medical Community’s Stand in the R G Kar Rape and Murder Case
The medical community, particularly in West Bengal, has been at the forefront of the protests. Junior doctors, medical students, and senior practitioners have united in demanding justice for the victim. “Tilottoma,” or the City of Joy, Kolkata, witnessed numerous protests across the state. Indian Medical Association (IMA) calls for stronger security measures in hospitals. The community’s stance is clear. They will not rest until they bring those responsible to justice. Moreover, their demand also includes changes to protect healthcare workers.
Public Protests and Movements in the R G Kar Rape and Murder Case
In addition to doctor’s protests, the incident has ignited widespread public protests. This has spread with various student unions, women’s rights groups, and civil society organizations joining the fight. The #WeWantJustice Movement, which reflects the rage and demand for justice among people, has garnered a lot of popularity on social media.
Lastly, the R G Kar Medical College rape and murder case in 2024 highlights the severe vulnerabilities women continue to face in the workplace. This is not something new, but the brutality of the murder stunned the whole nation. As the investigation progresses, the roles of Sanjoy Roy, Sandip Ghosh, and other accused persons remain under intense scrutiny. The state and central governments, the medical community, and the public are deeply investing their efforts in the outcome. One thing is for sure, this time, no one will return to their sweet home without an answer from the justice system. In conclusion, this case will set a benchmark for India’s legal and justice system.
About The Author
