The Supreme Court on Tuesday addressed the suo motu case concerning the rape and murder of a junior doctor at RG Kar Medical Hospital in Kolkata.
During the hearing, a three-judge bench led by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud highlighted how nationwide protests following the brutal incident have drawn attention to the persistent issue of inadequate institutional safety for doctors. The court acknowledged that medical associations have long raised this issue, emphasising that medical professionals have often been the unfortunate targets of violence while performing their duties.
In response, the Supreme Court established a national task force under its jurisdiction to propose measures for ensuring the safety of doctors at their workplaces. “It will have doctors from diverse backgrounds who will suggest modalities to be followed across India so that safety conditions at work are there and young or middle-aged doctors are safe in their work environment,” stated the CJI.
The court also noted the adverse impact of doctors abstaining from work on patients in need of medical care. “We earnestly appeal to all the doctors that we are here to ensure that their safety is the matter of highest national concern. Please trust us, that is why we have not left the matter to HC,” the court remarked.
Expressing its dissatisfaction with the West Bengal government and hospital authorities, the DY Chandrachud-led bench criticised the delay in filing the FIR and the procedural lapses in handling the case.
The bench stressed that the nation cannot afford to wait for another rape for things to change.
The Chief Justice further criticised the state government for appointing Dr. Sandip Ghosh as principal of another prestigious institution, Calcutta Medical College, following his resignation as the head of RG Kar Hospital. “When the conduct of the principal is under scrutiny, how was he appointed as a principal of another college immediately?” questioned the CJI.
Additionally, the CJI raised concerns about the vandalism that occurred at the hospital on August 14, directing the CISF to provide security. “The hospital is invaded by a mob. Critical facilities were damaged. What was the police doing? The first thing the police have to do is to secure the crime scene,” the CJI stated.
The Chief Justice also expressed deep concern over the widespread circulation of the victim’s name, photographs and video clips showing the dead body in the media. “This is extremely concerning,” the CJI stated.
(With inputs from agencies)
Dikshant Sharma
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