The Supreme Court has taken suo moto cognizance of the brutal rape and murder of a female trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata. The decision, announced on August 18, 2024, marks a pivotal moment in addressing not only the specific crime but also the broader issues of safety for medical professionals across India.
The Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, along with Justices J.B. Pardiwala and Manoj Misra, has scheduled a hearing for August 20, 2024.
The tragic event unfolded on August 9, 2024, when the body of the second-year postgraduate trainee was discovered in a seminar hall of the hospital. The incident sparked nationwide protests, with medical communities and the public demanding swift justice and better safety measures for healthcare workers.
Following the incident, the Calcutta High Court had already transferred the investigation from the Kolkata Police to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) due to dissatisfaction with the initial investigative progress.
The Supreme Court’s involvement now adds another layer of scrutiny, aiming to ensure justice and possibly set precedents for future cases involving the safety of medical personnel.
The horrific incident has not only highlighted the vulnerability of doctors but has also led to discussions on the lack of safe spaces within hospitals. The medical community, through bodies like the Indian Medical Association (IMA), has been vocal about the need for legislative changes to protect healthcare workers.