Supreme Court Orders Submission of Progress Report in Kolkata Doctor's Rape-Murder Case

The Supreme Court has come down heavily on the West Bengal government for its slow-paced efforts in improving safety measures at state-run hospitals in light of the shocking rape and murder of a junior doctor at RG Kar Medical College. During a hearing on September 30, Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud directed the state to submit an updated progress report on the installation of CCTV cameras and other safety infrastructure improvements by October 14. This comes amid growing concerns about the safety of medical professionals, especially women, working in government hospitals across the state.

The incident, which occurred on August 9, 2024, has sparked widespread protests and work suspensions among junior doctors in West Bengal, who have cited a pervasive “threat culture” in the state’s medical institutions. Junior doctors resumed their duties on September 21, following a 42-day cease work, but continue to demand comprehensive safety measures from the government.

Court Criticizes ‘Tardy’ Progress in Hospital Safety Measures

In Monday’s hearing, a bench comprising Chief Justice Chandrachud and Justices J B Pardiwala and Manoj Misra pulled up the state government for its failure to adequately expedite hospital safety measures. “No part of work above 50%. Why is the process so tardy?” asked the Chief Justice, reflecting on the sluggish progress of installing CCTV cameras and improving infrastructure, including the construction of separate toilets and resting rooms for doctors at RG Kar Medical College.

The Supreme Court has been monitoring the situation since August 9, expressing frustration over the lack of urgency in implementing the much-needed reforms.

Junior Doctors Demand Accountability and Safety

Junior doctors from various government hospitals in West Bengal have remained at the forefront of protests, demanding a safer work environment. On Sunday, junior doctors and citizens organized torch rallies across several locations, including RG Kar Medical College, Sagore Dutta Hospital, and Calcutta Medical College, to bring attention to the intimidation and harassment many doctors reportedly face in their workplaces.

The West Bengal Junior Doctors’ Forum, representing medical students and junior doctors, has expressed dissatisfaction with the state’s slow response to their demands, which include enhanced security, the end of corrupt practices such as the sale of examination keys, and addressing cases of sexual harassment in medical institutions.

CBI Probe Shows ‘Substantial Leads’

During the hearing, the Supreme Court acknowledged the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)’s progress in probing the doctor’s rape-murder case and allegations of financial misconduct within RG Kar Medical College. The investigation is reportedly exploring two key aspects: the rape and murder incident itself and the financial irregularities associated with hospital management.

The court questioned Solicitor General Tushar Mehta regarding the individuals still employed at RG Kar Medical College despite being under investigation for financial irregularities. The court urged the CBI to share pertinent information with the state government to take necessary action against the implicated individuals.

Victim’s Family Distressed Over Social Media Circulation

The family of the victim continues to grapple with the emotional distress caused by unauthorized circulation of their daughter’s name and images on social media platforms. Advocate Vrinda Grover, representing the family, raised concerns before the court about the ongoing release of sensitive content, despite an earlier Supreme Court directive to take down such material from the internet.

The court reiterated its previous order, clarifying that all social media intermediaries, including Wikipedia, must comply with the removal of the victim’s images. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeITy) was also directed to assign a nodal officer to handle such cases and ensure enforcement of the court’s orders.

Safety Measures in Focus Amid CJI’s Criticism

The Supreme Court has emphasized the need for immediate improvements in the safety infrastructure of West Bengal’s medical facilities. Although the state government has promised to complete the installation of CCTV cameras and other security measures by October 31, the court has urged that efforts be expedited to meet an earlier deadline of October 15.

In response to the growing unrest among medical professionals, the court previously constituted a National Task Force (NTF) led by Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, tasked with providing recommendations on ensuring the safety of medical professionals across India.

Doctors’ Return to Work Amid Mixed Claims

Though resident doctors resumed their duties on September 21, following assurances from the state government, disputes remain over the scope of their work. The West Bengal government alleged during the hearing that doctors were not fully performing their inpatient and outpatient duties. However, Senior Advocate Indira Jaising, representing the doctors, countered this claim, insisting that all essential and emergency services, including both inpatient and outpatient care, were being provided.

The Supreme Court recorded Jaising’s submission, acknowledging that doctors are performing their duties as expected.

Next Hearing Scheduled for October 14

With significant leads emerging in the CBI’s probe and the state government facing criticism for its lackluster progress in improving hospital safety, the Supreme Court has directed further investigation and updates in the case. The court has scheduled the next hearing for October 14, giving the state government until then to make substantial headway in implementing the recommended safety measures.

In the meantime, junior doctors in West Bengal are expected to maintain their protests, advocating for improved working conditions and enhanced protections against the harassment and violence they allege are rampant in the state’s medical institutions.