RG-KAR : SC Reviews Rape-Murder Case ,Doctors Resume Essential Services, CBI Investigates Irregularities

On September 30, the Supreme Court addressed the ongoing suo motu case concerning the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Hospital, West Bengal. During the hearing, resident doctors confirmed they are performing all essential services, including both in-patient and out-patient duties, after a period of abstention in protest.

The Court previously instructed them to return to work, assuring no punitive action for their earlier protest.

The CBI presented a status report, revealing ongoing investigations into both the crime and financial irregularities at the hospital

The doctors’ association requested the suspension of individuals implicated in the cover-up, to which the state expressed willingness to act based on CBI findings.

The Court also emphasized enhanced hospital security measures and ordered social media platforms to remove unauthorized content related to the victim.

Order as on 17/09/2024 ;

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is investigating the case and has received specific leads from the deceased's father.

The court has emphasized the need for confidentiality to protect the integrity of the investigation.

Various parties have submitted their concerns and suggestions. Resident doctors have indicated additional evidence, while the parents of the deceased have expressed their concerns.

The government of West Bengal has provided a status report on the steps taken to enhance safety and security in medical colleges and hospitals. These include upgrades to infrastructure, additional security personnel, and the formation of counseling centers.

Women doctors have contested an earlier state government order restricting them from night duties. The court has rejected any notion of special concessions for women doctors regarding night shifts, emphasizing that safety measures should protect all doctors equally.

The court has directed the formation of monitoring committees, grievance redressal systems, and internal complaint committees in hospitals. It has also ordered the formation of counseling centers for healthcare workers.

The West Bengal Junior Doctors' Front has raised concerns about safety and administrative failure following the tragic incident.

They have requested safety upgrades, installation of CCTV cameras, and proper dialogue with the state government. The court has noted the minutes of a meeting between the Chief Minister and representatives of the Junior Doctors' Front, which aimed to resolve some of these issues.

The court will review the case again on 27 September 2024. This case addresses critical concerns around the safety of healthcare professionals in West Bengal and the proper conduct of an investigation into a high-profile crime. It also highlights the steps the state is taking to improve hospital infrastructure and security while addressing gender equality issues in the medical field.