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2024 R. G. Kar Medical College and Hospital rape and murder: Difference between revisions
2024 R. G. Kar Medical College and Hospital rape and murder (edit)
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{{Short description| | {{Short description|Assault and rape incident in India}} | ||
{{Merge from|National Task Force for Safety of Medical Professionals|discuss=Talk:2024 Kolkata rape and murder incident#Proposed merge of National Task Force for Safety of Medical Professionals into 2024 Kolkata rape and murder incident|date=August 2024}} | |||
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{{Use dmy dates|date=August 2024}} | |||
{{Use Indian English|date=August 2024}}{{pp-extended|small=yes}} | |||
{{Infobox event | {{Infobox event | ||
| title = 2024 Kolkata rape and murder incident | | title = 2024 Kolkata rape and murder incident | ||
| image = File: | | image = File:Protest against Kolkata rape-murder.jpg | ||
| image_size = <!-- Optional: Image size, e.g., 250px --> | | image_size = <!-- Optional: Image size, e.g., 250px --> | ||
| caption = | | caption = Candles lit by children from Dhakuakhana Private School, commemorating the victim. | ||
| date = {{Start date|2024|08|09}} | | date = {{Start date|df=yes|2024|08|09}} | ||
| time = <!-- If known --> | | time = <!-- If known --> | ||
| place = [[R. G. Kar Medical College and Hospital]], Belgachia, [[Kolkata]], | | place = [[R. G. Kar Medical College and Hospital]], Belgachia, [[Kolkata]], West Bengal, India | ||
| also known as = | | also known as = | ||
| type = | | type = Rape and murder | ||
| cause = | | cause = | ||
| participants = | | participants = | ||
| reported deaths = Moumita Debnath<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-08- | | reported deaths = Moumita Debnath<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-08-15 |title=No country for women |url=https://www.tbsnews.net/thoughts/no-country-women-917711 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240815204519/https://www.tbsnews.net/thoughts/no-country-women-917711 |archive-date=15 August 2024 |access-date=2024-09-14 |website=[[The Business Standard]] |language=en}}</ref> | ||
| reported injuries = <!-- If there were injuries to others --> | | reported injuries = <!-- If there were injuries to others --> | ||
| arrests = | | arrests = 3<ref>{{cite news |date=10 August 2024 | ||
|title=RG Kar doctor death: Post mortem confirms sexual assault, 1 arrested; doctors association threatens shutdown unless… |url=https://www.livemint.com/news/india/rg-kar-doctor-death-post-mortem-confirms-sexual-assault-1-arrested-doctors-association-threatens-shutdown-unless-11723280698455.html |url-status= |work=[[livemint]] |location= |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240811165118/https://www.livemint.com/news/india/rg-kar-doctor-death-post-mortem-confirms-sexual-assault-1-arrested-doctors-association-threatens-shutdown-unless-11723280698455.html |archive-date=11 August 2024 |access-date=11 August 2024}}</ref> | |title=RG Kar doctor death: Post mortem confirms sexual assault, 1 arrested; doctors association threatens shutdown unless… |url=https://www.livemint.com/news/india/rg-kar-doctor-death-post-mortem-confirms-sexual-assault-1-arrested-doctors-association-threatens-shutdown-unless-11723280698455.html |url-status=live |work=[[livemint]] |location= |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240811165118/https://www.livemint.com/news/india/rg-kar-doctor-death-post-mortem-confirms-sexual-assault-1-arrested-doctors-association-threatens-shutdown-unless-11723280698455.html |archive-date=11 August 2024 |access-date=11 August 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Bhattacharya |first=Ravik |date=15 September 2024 |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/kolkata/rg-kar-ex-principal-sandip-ghosh-arrested-by-cbi-in-kolkata-rape-murder-case-9567965/ |title=CBI arrests R G Kar ex-principal, cop over 'tampering' of evidence, 'delay in FIR' |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240915005639/https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/kolkata/rg-kar-ex-principal-sandip-ghosh-arrested-by-cbi-in-kolkata-rape-murder-case-9567965/ |archive-date=15 September 2024 |access-date=15 September 2024 |work=[[The Indian Express]] |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.aninews.in/news/national/general-news/cbi-arrests-former-rg-kar-principal-kolkata-police-sho-in-rape-murder-case-of-trainee-doctor20240914230317/ |title=CBI arrests former RG Kar principal, Kolkata Police SHO in rape-murder case of trainee doctor |date=14 September 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240915005701/https://www.aninews.in/news/national/general-news/cbi-arrests-former-rg-kar-principal-kolkata-police-sho-in-rape-murder-case-of-trainee-doctor20240914230317/ |archive-date=15 September 2024 |access-date=15 September 2024 |work=[[Asian News International|ANI]] |url-status=live}}</ref> | ||
| accused = <!-- DO NOT add the name of suspect per WP:BLPCRIME until proven in a court of law --> | | accused = <!-- DO NOT add the name of suspect per WP:BLPCRIME until proven in a court of law --> | ||
| charges = <!-- Charges filed against the accused --> | | charges = <!-- Charges filed against the accused --> | ||
| outcome = | | outcome = | ||
| website = <!-- If there is an official website or news link --> | | website = <!-- If there is an official website or news link --> | ||
}} | }} | ||
On 9 August 2024,<ref | |||
On 9 August 2024, Moumita Debnath,<ref>{{cite news |last=Mukherjee |first=Trisha |date=2024-09-03 |title=West Bengal Assembly in India passes bill mandating life in prison or death penalty for rape convictions|url=https://southernillinoisnow.com/2024/09/03/west-bengal-assembly-in-india-passes-bill-mandating-life-in-prison-or-death-penalty-for-rape-convictions |access-date=2024-09-09|website=Southern Illinois Now}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Tang |first1=Louisa|last2=Garg|first2=Ishan|date=2024-09-05 |title=Brutal rape and murder of doctor in India renews concerns of sexual violence against women |url=https://www.channelnewsasia.com/asia/india-doctor-brutal-rape-murder-renews-concerns-sexual-violence-women-4588001 |access-date=2024-09-09|website=[[CNA (TV network)|CNA]]}}</ref> a trainee doctor at [[R. G. Kar Medical College and Hospital]] in [[Kolkata]], West Bengal, India, was raped and murdered in a college building. Her body was found in a seminar room on campus. The incident has amplified debate about the safety of women and doctors in India, and has sparked significant outrage, nationwide and international protests, and demands for a thorough investigation.<ref name="india today-2024">{{Cite web |last1=Roy |first1=Suryagni |last2=Roy |first2=Anirban Sinha |date=9 August 2024 |title=Woman trainee doctor found dead in seminar hall of Kolkata hospital |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/cities/kolkata/story/west-bengal-trainee-doctor-dead-rg-kar-medical-college-hospital-2579796-2024-08-09 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240814005923/https://www.indiatoday.in/cities/kolkata/story/west-bengal-trainee-doctor-dead-rg-kar-medical-college-hospital-2579796-2024-08-09 |archive-date=14 August 2024 |access-date=14 August 2024 |website=[[India Today]]}}</ref><ref name="deccan herald">{{Cite web |date=16 August 2024 |title=Kolkata doctor rape-murder case: All you need to know |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/india/west-bengal/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-case-all-you-need-to-know-3148176#6 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240813225053/https://www.deccanherald.com/india/west-bengal/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-case-all-you-need-to-know-3148176#6 |archive-date=13 August 2024 |access-date=15 August 2024 |website=[[Deccan Herald]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Sankaran |first=Vishwam |date=2024-08-17 |title=One million doctors go on strike in India after junior medic's rape and murder |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/india/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-protest-b2597760.html |access-date=2024-08-21 |website=The Independent |archive-date=21 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240821142244/https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/india/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-protest-b2597760.html |url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
== Incident == | == Incident == | ||
On | On the night of 8 August 2024, the victim had dinner with her colleagues and retired in a seminar hall after a 36-hour shift in the hospital. At about 9:30 [[Indian Standard Time|IST]] the following morning, her body was discovered in the seminar hall in a semi-nude state with her eyes, mouth, and genitals bleeding. She was later declared dead.<ref>{{Cite web |date=12 August 2024 |title=Kolkata doctor rape and murder: What happened on the night of incident |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-timeline-of-events-west-bengal-kg-kar-hospital-2581236-2024-08-12 |access-date=21 August 2024 |website=India Today |archive-date=15 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240815143941/https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-timeline-of-events-west-bengal-kg-kar-hospital-2581236-2024-08-12 |url-status=live }}</ref> College authorities initially informed her family that she had committed suicide.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-08-22 |title=Kolkata doctor rape-murder case: Step-by-step unfolding of events from fateful night at RG Kar to SC hearing today |url=https://www.businesstoday.in/india/story/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-case-step-by-step-unfolding-of-events-from-fateful-night-at-rg-kar-to-sc-hearing-today-442623-2024-08-22 |access-date=2024-08-23 |website=Business Today |archive-date=23 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240823095428/https://www.businesstoday.in/india/story/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-case-step-by-step-unfolding-of-events-from-fateful-night-at-rg-kar-to-sc-hearing-today-442623-2024-08-22 |url-status=live }}</ref> | ||
An [[autopsy]] was conducted on 9 August and, after its completion, an unnatural death case was registered.<ref name="ndtv.com">{{Cite web |title=Kolkata Doctor Rape-Murder Case Live Updates: Supreme Court's Tough Questions For Bengal On Kolkata Rape-Killing |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-case-live-updates-cbi-submits-status-report-supreme-court-hearing-to-begin-shortly-6391042 |access-date=2024-08-22 |website=NDTV.com |archive-date=22 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240822110358/https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-case-live-updates-cbi-submits-status-report-supreme-court-hearing-to-begin-shortly-6391042 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="indiatoday.in">{{Cite web |date=2024-08-22 |title=Never seen in 30 years: Supreme Court blasts Kolkata police probe in rape case |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/law/story/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-supreme-court-kolkata-police-investigation-blasts-hearing-delay-case-registration-2586245-2024-08-22 |access-date=2024-08-22 |website=India Today |archive-date=22 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240822113440/https://www.indiatoday.in/law/story/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-supreme-court-kolkata-police-investigation-blasts-hearing-delay-case-registration-2586245-2024-08-22 |url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
== Investigation == | == Investigation == | ||
=== Autopsy report === | |||
An autopsy revealed that the victim had been raped and [[Sexual assault|sexually assaulted]] before being killed via [[Strangling|strangulation]]. The report, spanning four pages, also noted deep wounds in her genital tract, lips, left leg, right hand, ring finger, neck, and face. The report revealed that the scratch marks on the woman's face were likely caused by the culprit's fingernails. According to the report, pressure was applied to her mouth and throat, and she was strangled, resulting in a fracture of the [[thyroid cartilage]]. The report also noted bleeding from her eyes, mouth, and genitals, with the injuries in her genital area attributed to "perverted sexuality" and "genital torture". The exact cause of the injuries to her eyes remains undetermined.<ref>{{Cite web |last1=Saha |first1=Rajesh |last2=Roy |first2=Suryagni |date=13 August 2024 |title=Kolkata doctor's autopsy reveals she was throttled to death, genital torture |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/rg-kar-hospital-rape-murder-case-post-mortem-report-handed-over-victim-doctors-family-2581264-2024-08-13 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240814011926/https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/rg-kar-hospital-rape-murder-case-post-mortem-report-handed-over-victim-doctors-family-2581264-2024-08-13 |archive-date=14 August 2024 |access-date=14 August 2024 |website=[[India Today]]}}</ref><ref name="livemint">{{cite web |date=14 August 2024 |title=Kolkata rape and murder: Parents suspect gang rape, claim 150 mg of semen found in victim's body |url=https://www.livemint.com/news/india/kolkata-rape-and-murder-parents-suspect-gang-rape-claims-150-mg-of-semen-found-in-victims-body-11723639420123.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240815162045/https://www.livemint.com/news/india/kolkata-rape-and-murder-parents-suspect-gang-rape-claims-150-mg-of-semen-found-in-victims-body-11723639420123.html |archive-date=15 August 2024 |access-date=15 August 2024 |website=Livemint}}</ref> | |||
It was reported that the postmortem autopsy also revealed that around "150 mg" of semen was found in the vaginal swab.<ref name="BI">{{cite web |date=14 August 2024 |title=Kolkata rape-murder case: 150 mg of semen found in doctor's body, doctors say it could be gang rape |url=https://www.businesstoday.in/india/story/kolkata-rape-murder-case-150-mg-of-semen-found-in-doctors-body-doctors-say-it-could-be-gang-rape-441513-2024-08-14 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240815232351/https://www.businesstoday.in/india/story/kolkata-rape-murder-case-150-mg-of-semen-found-in-doctors-body-doctors-say-it-could-be-gang-rape-441513-2024-08-14 |archive-date=15 August 2024 |access-date=15 August 2024 |website=Business Today}}</ref><ref name="Times of India">{{cite web |last1=Yengkhom |first1=Sumati |last2=Chakrabarty |first2=Sanjib |date=15 August 2024 |title=150 mg semen in Kolkata doctor's body: 'It's not rocket science to suspect involvement of more than one person' |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/ima-team-vows-to-stand-by-victims-family-for-justice/articleshow/112536204.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240815094243/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/ima-team-vows-to-stand-by-victims-family-for-justice/articleshow/112536204.cms |archive-date=15 August 2024 |access-date=15 August 2024 |website=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref> This finding, along with the extent of injuries, led the doctors who assessed the autopsy report and the victim's parents to suggest Debnath may have been subjected to [[gang rape]].<ref name="livemint" /><ref name="BI" /> However, the [[Kolkata Police]] has dismissed these claims as rumours, stating that it is impossible to distinguish semen from multiple individuals with the naked eye during an autopsy.<ref>{{cite web |date=15 August 2024 |title=Kolkata doctor rape-murder: Post-mortem report highlights brutal assault, confirms multiple injuries, signs of struggle |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-post-mortem-report-highlights-brutal-assault-confirms-multiple-injuries-signs-of-struggle/articleshow/112484225.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240815215206/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-post-mortem-report-highlights-brutal-assault-confirms-multiple-injuries-signs-of-struggle/articleshow/112484225.cms |archive-date=15 August 2024 |access-date=15 August 2024 |website=[[The Times of India]] |quote=a police officer said, "It is impossible to distinguish semen from three individuals with the naked eye during an autopsy."}}</ref> The [[Central Bureau of Investigation|CBI]] investigation has not so far revealed any signs of occurrence of a gang rape.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-08-22 |title=Exclusive: CBI probe suggests Kolkata doctor was not gang-raped, say sources |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/exclusive-2586170-2024-08-22 |access-date=2024-08-23 |website=India Today |archive-date=22 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240822191815/https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/exclusive-2586170-2024-08-22 |url-status=live }}</ref> In a clarification of the report's data, it was stated that the "151 g" (not mg) relates to the total weight of the genitalia sample collected from the body, not exclusively to semen.<ref>{{Cite web |date=20 August 2024 |title=Kolkata doctor's rape-murder: Autopsy report reveals horrific details of injuries on victim's body, most on face and neck |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/india/west-bengal/kolkata-doctors-rape-murder-autopsy-report-reveals-horrific-details-of-injuries-on-victims-body-most-on-face-and-neck-3157440 |access-date=2024-08-24 |website=Deccan Herald |language=en}}</ref> | |||
=== Arrests === | |||
Following an investigation, the police arrested a suspect, a civic volunteer Sanjay Roy with the Kolkata Police disaster management force who had been posted at the police outpost near the medical college.<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |date=18 August 2024 |title=Timeline: 2024 RG Kar Medical College and Hospital rape and murder |url=https://www.orissapost.com/timeline-2024-rg-kar-medical-college-and-hospital-rape-and-murder/ |access-date=19 August 2024 |website=OrissaPOST |archive-date=22 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240822113442/https://www.orissapost.com/timeline-2024-rg-kar-medical-college-and-hospital-rape-and-murder/ |url-status=live }}</ref> He has been described as a womaniser and domestic abuser. According to the Kolkata Police, he initially confessed to the crime.<ref name="n942">{{cite web | last=Dhar | first=Aniruddha | title=Kolkata doctor's rape: CBI asked Sanjay Roy 10 questions in polygraph test. His U-turn when grilled for RG Kar murder | website=Hindustan Times | date=2024-09-07 | url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/cbi-asked-sanjay-roy-10-questions-in-polygraph-test-sanjoy-roy-kolkata-doctors-rape-murder-rg-kar-hospital-101725700784708.html | access-date=2024-09-16}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last1=Bhattacharya |first1=Ravik |last2=Mitra |first2=Atri |date=14 August 2024 |title=Kolkata doctor's rape-murder: Accused's wife complained of assault twice, police took no action |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/kolkata/doctor-rape-murder-accused-wife-assault-police-no-action-9514033/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240815085340/https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/kolkata/doctor-rape-murder-accused-wife-assault-police-no-action-9514033/ |archive-date=15 August 2024 |access-date=15 August 2024 |website=[[The Indian Express]]}}</ref><ref name="deccan herald" /> A psycho-analysis test of the accused in the case was conducted by the Delhi's [[Central Forensic Science Laboratory]] (CFSL) on the request of the CBI. The officers told [[Press Trust of India|PTI]] that "he showed no remorse and was unflustered while narrating the incident".<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kolkata rape-murder: Accused Sanjay Roy has 'animal-like instincts', unflustered while detailing crime |url=https://www.theweek.in/news/india/2024/08/22/kolkata-rape-murder-accused-sanjay-roy-has-animal-like-instincts-unflustered-while-detailing-crime.html |access-date=2024-08-23 |website=The Week |archive-date=23 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240823052556/https://www.theweek.in/news/india/2024/08/22/kolkata-rape-murder-accused-sanjay-roy-has-animal-like-instincts-unflustered-while-detailing-crime.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-08-23 |title=Kolkata rape-murder: Accused's psychoanalytic profiling reveals he is a 'pervert', says CBI |url=https://www.financialexpress.com/india-news/kolkata-rape-murder-accuseds-psychoanalytic-profiling-reveals-he-is-a-pervert-says-cbi/3590555/ |access-date=2024-08-23 |website=Financialexpress |archive-date=23 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240823100003/https://www.financialexpress.com/india-news/kolkata-rape-murder-accuseds-psychoanalytic-profiling-reveals-he-is-a-pervert-says-cbi/3590555/ |url-status=live }}</ref> He was sent to 14-day [[judicial custody]] on 23 August. | |||
A special CBI court had granted permission to the agency to conduct a [[Polygraph|polygraph test]] on the accused as well as the ex-principal of the college.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-08-23 |title=Kolkata rape-murder: Accused sent to 14 days jail, CBI gets polygraph test nod |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/law/story/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-sanjoy-roy-judicial-custody-2586817-2024-08-23 |access-date=2024-08-23 |website=India Today |archive-date=23 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240823095428/https://www.indiatoday.in/law/story/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-sanjoy-roy-judicial-custody-2586817-2024-08-23 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-08-26 |title=Kolkata Doctor Rape and Murder Case Live: Protests at RG Kar Hospital, Supreme Court, CBI Probe |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-case-news-live-rg-kar-hospital-sanjay-roy-sandip-ghosh-tmc-supreme-court-doctor-protests-west-bengal-mamata-banerje-cbi-investigation/liveblog/112773791.cms |access-date=2024-08-26 |website=The Times of India |language=en}}</ref> The polygraph of the accused revealed several inconsistencies with regard to his narration of the events of the night of the crime. The CBI raided the house of [[Sandip Kumar Ghosh]] and former medical superintendent and college vice-principal, Sanjay Vashisth, on 25 August and seized several documents. It also filed an [[First information report|FIR]] against them over financial irregularities and corruption at the hospital. Later, the [[Enforcement Directorate]] (ED) also launched an investigation over the financial irregularities by the hospital administration.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-08-26 |title=Kolkata Doctor Rape-Murder Case Live Updates: CBI names RG Kar Hospital ex-principal Sandip Ghosh in corruption FIR, slaps non-bailable sections |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/kolkata/kolkata-rg-kar-doctor-rape-murder-case-corruption-cbi-protest-live-updates-9533406/ |access-date=2024-08-26 |website=The Indian Express |language=en |archive-date=26 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240826052438/https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/kolkata/kolkata-rg-kar-doctor-rape-murder-case-corruption-cbi-protest-live-updates-9533406/ |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
On September 14, 2024, Sandip Ghosh, the former principal of the college, and Abhijit Mondal, the Station House Officer (SHO) of Tala Police Station, were detained.<ref>{{cite news |author= Aajtak Bangla |url=https://bangla.aajtak.in/kolkata/story/rg-kar-rape-and-murder-case-now-sandip-ghosh-and-tala-ps-oc-abhijit-mondal-has-has-been-arrested-in-rape-and-murder-case-1092847-2024-09-14 |title=এবার ধর্ষণ ও খুনের মামলায় গ্রেফতার সন্দীপ ঘোষ, ধৃত টালা থানার প্রাক্তন ওসি |date=14 September 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240915011621/https://bangla.aajtak.in/kolkata/story/rg-kar-rape-and-murder-case-now-sandip-ghosh-and-tala-ps-oc-abhijit-mondal-has-has-been-arrested-in-rape-and-murder-case-1092847-2024-09-14 |archive-date= 15 September 2024 |access-date=15 September 2024 |work=[[Aaj Tak]] |language=bn |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |author=আনন্দবাজার অনলাইন সংবাদদাতা |url=https://www.anandabazar.com/west-bengal/kolkata/sandip-ghosh-arrested-by-cbi-in-rg-kar-medical-college-doctor-rape-and-murder-case-dgtl/cid/1545796 |title='প্রমাণ লোপাট': ধর্ষণ-খুন মামলাতেও সন্দীপ ঘোষকে গ্রেফতার করল সিবিআই, টালার ওসি-ও ধৃত |date=14 September 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240915011631/https://www.anandabazar.com/west-bengal/kolkata/sandip-ghosh-arrested-by-cbi-in-rg-kar-medical-college-doctor-rape-and-murder-case-dgtl |archive-date=15 September 2024 |work=[[Anandabazar Patrika]] |language=bn |url-status=live |access-date=15 September 2024 }}</ref> | |||
Ghosh is accused of complicity in the delay of filing the First Information Report (FIR) and mishandling key evidence in the case. His arrest marks the second time he's been taken into custody—he had earlier been arrested for unrelated financial irregularities at the hospital. Meanwhile, Mondal has been accused of tampering with evidence and misleading the investigation team.<ref>{{cite news |last=SOM |first=MOYURIE |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/west-bengal/cbi-arrests-police-officer-rg-kar-principal-in-kolkata-rape-and-murder-case/article68643255.ece |title=CBI arrests ex-R.G. Kar principal Sandip Ghosh, police officer in Kolkata rape and murder case |date=15 September 2024 |work=[[The Hindu]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240915013306/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/west-bengal/cbi-arrests-police-officer-rg-kar-principal-in-kolkata-rape-and-murder-case/article68643255.ece |archive-date=15 September 2024|access-date=15 September 2024 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |author=MPost |url=https://www.millenniumpost.in/big-stories/sandip-ghosh-and-tala-ps-oc-abhijit-mondal-arrested-by-cbi-in-rg-kar-rape-murder-case-579676 |title=Sandip Ghosh and Tala PS O.C Abhijit Mondal arrested by CBI in RG Kar rape & murder case |date=15 September 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240915013325/https://www.millenniumpost.in/big-stories/sandip-ghosh-and-tala-ps-oc-abhijit-mondal-arrested-by-cbi-in-rg-kar-rape-murder-case-579676 |archive-date=15 September 2024 |access-date=15 September 2024 |work=MillenniumPost |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Singh |first=Bhavatosh |date=15 September 2024 |url=https://www.timesnownews.com/india/cbi-arrests-sandip-ghosh-kolkata-police-sho-in-rg-kar-rape-murder-case-article-113354397 |title=RG Kar Rape-Murder Case: CBI Arrests Sandip Ghosh, Kolkata Police SHO For Destruction Of Evidence, Delay In FIR |access-date=15 September 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240915013408/https://www.timesnownews.com/india/cbi-arrests-sandip-ghosh-kolkata-police-sho-in-rg-kar-rape-murder-case-article-113354397 |archive-date=15 September 2024 |work=[[Times Now]] |url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
=== Investigation of the college principal === | |||
[[Sandip Kumar Ghosh]], an [[Orthopedic surgery|orthopedic surgeon]] and the principal of the college, resigned amid the protests surrounding the incident. He cited an inability to endure the ongoing humiliation from social media criticism and defamatory remarks by politicians. Shortly after his resignation, he was appointed as the principal of [[Calcutta National Medical College]], a move that sparked further outrage.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kumari |first=Sweety |date=12 August 2024 |title=RG Kar principal resigns, made head of another prestigious medical college within hours |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/kolkata/dr-sandip-ghosh-quit-principal-kolkata-medical-college-doctor-raped-murdered-9509585/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240815134802/https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/kolkata/dr-sandip-ghosh-quit-principal-kolkata-medical-college-doctor-raped-murdered-9509585/ |archive-date=15 August 2024 |access-date=14 August 2024 |website=[[The Indian Express]]}}</ref> On 13 August, the Calcutta High Court directed the government and the concerning authorities to place him on extended leave while also criticising his immediate re-appointment.<ref name=":1" /> | |||
On 28 August, the Indian Medical Association suspended the membership of Ghosh amid allegations of corruption and the ongoing [[Central Bureau of Investigation|CBI]] and [[Enforcement Directorate]] (ED) investigations against him. He was the vice-president of the association's Kolkata branch.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-08-28 |title=Under Fire In Kolkata Doctor Rape-Murder Case, Former RG Kar Principal Sandip Ghosh Suspended By IMA |url=https://www.news18.com/india/kolkata-rape-murder-case-ima-suspends-membership-of-former-rg-kar-principal-sandip-ghosh-9030902.html |access-date=2024-08-29 |website=News18 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-08-28 |title=Under Fire In Kolkata Doctor Rape-Murder Case, Former RG Kar Principal Sandip Ghosh Suspended By IMA |url=https://www.news18.com/india/kolkata-rape-murder-case-ima-suspends-membership-of-former-rg-kar-principal-sandip-ghosh-9030902.html |access-date=2024-08-30 |website=News18 |language=en |archive-date=29 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240829074317/https://www.news18.com/india/kolkata-rape-murder-case-ima-suspends-membership-of-former-rg-kar-principal-sandip-ghosh-9030902.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Ghosh had been subjected to two polygraph tests over an alleged cover-up of the rape and allegations of financial fraud and irregularities at the college and hospital. On 2 September, the CBI arrested Ghosh along with his security aide Afsar Ali and vendors Biplav Singha and Suman Hazar over financial irregularities and fraud during his tenure as the principal.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-09-02 |title=Kolkata Doctor Rape-Murder Live Updates: In special Assembly session, Bengal govt to table new anti-rape Bill today; BJP to oppose |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/kolkata/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-live-updates-tmc-bjp-bengal-assembly-9545703/ |access-date=2024-09-03 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Ex Principal Of Kolkata Hospital Where Doctor Was Raped-Murdered Arrested |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/ex-principal-of-kolkata-hospital-where-doctor-was-raped-murdered-arrested-6475279 |access-date=2024-09-03 |website=NDTV.com}}</ref> He, along with the other arrested people, were remanded to eight-day CBI custody by a special court. On 3 September, he was suspended by the West Bengal Health Department.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-09-03 |title=Kolkata case: West Bengal health department suspends former principal of RG Kar Medical College and Hospital Sandip Ghosh |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/kolkata-case-west-bengal-health-department-suspends-former-principal-of-rg-kar-medical-college-and-hospital-sandip-ghosh/articleshow/113033444.cms |access-date=2024-09-04 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=4 September 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240904080643/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/kolkata-case-west-bengal-health-department-suspends-former-principal-of-rg-kar-medical-college-and-hospital-sandip-ghosh/articleshow/113033444.cms |url-status=live }}</ref> On 14 September he was again arrested by the CBI along with a police personnel Abhijit Mondal for destruction of evidence at the hospital.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-09-14 |title=Kolkata rape-murder case: Ex-principal Sandip Ghosh, policeman arrested for destruction of evidence |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/cbi-arrests-ex-principal-sandip-ghosh-and-a-policeman-in-kolkata-rape-murder-case/articleshow/113354573.cms |access-date=2024-09-15 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> | |||
== | == Court proceedings == | ||
On 13 August 2024, the [[Calcutta High Court]] | On 13 August 2024, the [[Calcutta High Court]], unsatisfied with the police's handling of the investigation, assigned the case to the [[Central Bureau of Investigation]] (CBI).<ref name=":3" /> They also flagged the possibility of destruction of evidence if the state police continued with their investigation.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Bose |first=Saikat Kumar |date=14 August 2024 |title=Why Kolkata Doctor's Rape-Murder Case Went To CBI: Court's Tough Remarks |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-rg-kar-medical-college-why-kolkata-doctors-rape-murder-case-went-to-cbi-courts-tough-remarks-6333533 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240815085340/https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-rg-kar-medical-college-why-kolkata-doctors-rape-murder-case-went-to-cbi-courts-tough-remarks-6333533 |archive-date=15 August 2024 |access-date=14 August 2024 |website=[[NDTV]]}}</ref> | ||
== | On 18 August, the [[Supreme Court of India|Supreme Court]] took ''[[Sua sponte|suo moto]]'' cognizance of the case. A three-judge bench headed by the [[Chief Justice of India]] [[Dhananjaya Y. Chandrachud|DY Chandrachud]] heard the matter on 20 August. While criticising the State government, Kolkata police, as well as the college administration, over mishandling of the case and the vandalism which occurred on the night of 14 August. Following the incident and protests, the court constituted a [[National Task Force for Safety of Medical Professionals|national task force]] to ensure workplace safety for doctors and requested the protesting doctors return to their duties.<ref>{{Cite news |date=18 August 2024 |title=Kolkata rape-murder case: SC takes suo motu cognisance of incident at RG Kar Medical College Hospital; hearing on August 20 |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/kolkata-rape-murder-case-sc-takes-suo-motu-cognisance-of-incident-at-rg-kar-medical-college-hospital/articleshow/112607064.cms?from=mdr |access-date=18 August 2024 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389 |archive-date=19 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240819040103/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/kolkata-rape-murder-case-sc-takes-suo-motu-cognisance-of-incident-at-rg-kar-medical-college-hospital/articleshow/112607064.cms?from=mdr |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=20 August 2024 |title=Kolkata doctor rape-murder case: What Supreme Court said |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-case-what-supreme-court-on-said/articleshow/112644152.cms |access-date=20 August 2024 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=20 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240820062855/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-case-what-supreme-court-on-said/articleshow/112644152.cms |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=20 August 2024 |title=Kolkata Doctor Rape and Murder Case Live Updates: Supreme Court constitutes national task force to work out modalities for safety at workplace for doctors |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/kolkata/kolkata-doctor-rape-and-murder-case-live-updates-supreme-court-doctors-protest-9523053/ |access-date=20 August 2024 |website=The Indian Express |archive-date=20 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240820043648/https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/kolkata/kolkata-doctor-rape-and-murder-case-live-updates-supreme-court-doctors-protest-9523053/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The court ordered the [[Central Industrial Security Force]] and [[Central Reserve Police Force]] to provide security at the hospital and asked the CBI to submit a status report.<ref>{{Cite web |date=20 August 2024 |title=Kolkata Rape-Murder Case: SC Orders CISF, CRPF To Secure Hospital After Mob Attack, Rebukes State Police |url=https://www.news18.com/india/kolkata-rape-murder-case-sc-orders-cisf-crpf-to-secure-hospital-after-mob-attack-rebukes-state-police-9021230.html |access-date=20 August 2024 |website=News18 |archive-date=20 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240820090952/https://www.news18.com/india/kolkata-rape-murder-case-sc-orders-cisf-crpf-to-secure-hospital-after-mob-attack-rebukes-state-police-9021230.html |url-status=live }}</ref> In the hearing on 22 August, the court heavily criticised the law enforcement for the time delay between the discovery of the body and the registration of a [[first information report]]. It asked the state government to not take any action on the protesting doctors and the civilians and to not undertake any measures to stop peaceful protestors while requesting doctors to resume normal work.<ref name="ndtv.com"/><ref name="indiatoday.in"/> At a hearing on 9 September, judges sought clarification over the precise time of death and the filing of an unnatural death case.<ref>{{Cite web |title=We Need Clarifications On "Unnatural Death": Supreme Court On Kolkata Horror |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/day-after-global-protests-kolkata-rape-murder-case-in-supreme-court-today-6522210 |access-date=2024-09-09 |website=NDTV.com |archive-date=9 September 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240909063423/https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/day-after-global-protests-kolkata-rape-murder-case-in-supreme-court-today-6522210 |url-status=live }}</ref> They asked for a CBI status report by the coming week. Advocate [[Kapil Sibal]] appeared for the West Bengal government informed the court that 23 people had died due to the protests by medical fraternity in West Bengal.<ref>{{Cite web |title=We Need Clarifications On "Unnatural Death": Supreme Court On Kolkata Horror |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/day-after-global-protests-kolkata-rape-murder-case-in-supreme-court-today-6522210 |access-date=2024-09-09 |website=NDTV.com}}</ref> | ||
The Supreme Court on 9 September asked all the protesting doctors to return to their respective duties by the evening of 10 September. It asked the state government to extend all possible support to the CISF team providing security at the R.G. Kar Hospital and medical college.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-09-09 |title=Kolkata rape-murder case: SC asks protesting doctors to resume work by Sept 10, CBI told to file fresh status report |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/kolkata-rape-murder-case-sc-asks-protesting-doctors-to-resume-work-by-sept-10-cbi-told-to-file-fresh-status-report/articleshow/113191418.cms |access-date=2024-09-09 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> | |||
=== | == Protests == | ||
===Medical fraternity=== | |||
[[File:People protesting for justice for the victim 2024 R. G. Kar Medical College and Hospital Rape and Murder 03.jpg|thumb|People protesting for justice for the victim in Kolkata]] | [[File:People protesting for justice for the victim 2024 R. G. Kar Medical College and Hospital Rape and Murder 03.jpg|thumb|People protesting for justice for the victim in Kolkata]] | ||
The incident | The incident was widely covered in the media and triggered outrage across the nation especially within the medical community, as student unions and colleagues of the deceased demanded justice and improved security measures on campus.<ref name="deccan herald" /> | ||
In response, the [[Indian Medical Association]] (IMA) called on Union Health Minister [[J. P. Nadda]] to introduce a special central law aimed at preventing violence against doctors. They also urged that hospitals be designated as safe zones. This appeal | In response, the [[Indian Medical Association]] (IMA) called on [[Ministry of Health and Family Welfare|Union Health Minister]] [[J. P. Nadda]] to introduce a special central law aimed at preventing violence against doctors. They also urged that hospitals be designated as safe zones. This appeal followed widespread protests and strikes by resident doctors across the country in response to the crime, which raised serious concerns about the safety of medical staff.<ref>{{Cite web |title=IMA delegation meets Nadda, demands hospitals be declared safe zones |url=https://www.ptinews.com/story/national/ima-delegation-meets-nadda-demands-hospitals-be-declared-safe-zones/1735820 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240815085343/https://www.ptinews.com/story/national/ima-delegation-meets-nadda-demands-hospitals-be-declared-safe-zones/1735820 |archive-date=15 August 2024 |access-date=15 August 2024 |website=[[Press Trust of India]]}}</ref> | ||
[[File:Protesting for justice in Kalyani, for the victim 2024 R. G. Kar Medical College Rape and Murder case 09.jpg|left|thumb|Midnight protest for justice in [[Kalyani, West Bengal|Kalyani]]]] | |||
On 13 August, over 8,000 doctors in the state of [[Maharashtra]] suspended all but emergency services. In New Delhi, junior doctors wearing white coats staged a protest outside major government hospitals. Emergency services stayed suspended on 13 August in almost all the government-run college hospitals in [[Kolkata]]. Similar protests in cities such as [[Lucknow]], and [[Goa]] affected some hospital services.<ref>{{Cite web |date=13 August 2024 |title=Doctors across India protest rape and murder of medic in Kolkata |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/8/13/doctors-across-india-protest-rape-and-murder-of-medic-in-kolkata |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240815085325/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/8/13/doctors-across-india-protest-rape-and-murder-of-medic-in-kolkata |archive-date=15 August 2024 |access-date=14 August 2024 |website=[[Al Jazeera]]}}</ref> Hospitals which were the sites of protests included [[All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi|AIIMS Delhi]], [[Lady Hardinge Medical College]], [[Safdarjung Hospital]], [[Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital|RML Hospital]], [[Calcutta National Medical College]] and Hospital as well as the [[R. G. Kar Medical College and Hospital]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Pal |first=Pragati |date=14 August 2024 |title=Kolkata Doctor Rape-Murder Case LIVE Updates: Massive Doctors Protest In Delhi, BJP Alleges Suspects Closely Linked To TMC |url=https://www.news18.com/india/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-case-live-updates-autopsy-report-countrywide-protests-cbi-rg-kar-medical-college-hospital-calcutta-high-court-mamata-banerjee-liveblog-9015061.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240814033807/https://www.news18.com/india/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-case-live-updates-autopsy-report-countrywide-protests-cbi-rg-kar-medical-college-hospital-calcutta-high-court-mamata-banerjee-liveblog-9015061.html |archive-date=14 August 2024 |access-date=14 August 2024 |website=News18}}</ref> | |||
On 12 August, the [[Federation of Resident Doctors Association]] (FORDA) protested by suspending all elective medical services. Some demonstrations were called off on 13 August after a delegation of the IMA and other groups had met Health Minister J. P. Nadda. However, several resident doctors associations in India, including the Federation of All India Medical Associations (FAIMA) and doctors at AIIMS Delhi, Calcutta National Medical College, Indira Gandhi Medical College Dwarka, R. G. Kar Medical College and Hospital, RML Hospital, and Safdarjung Hospital have continued protests.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Rai |first=Aryan |date=14 August 2024 |title=Kolkata rape-murder case: Resident doctors call off strike after meeting JP Nadda |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/kolkata-rape-murder-case-resident-doctors-call-off-strike-jp-nadda-meet-2581827-2024-08-14 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240815085319/https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/kolkata-rape-murder-case-resident-doctors-call-off-strike-jp-nadda-meet-2581827-2024-08-14 |archive-date=15 August 2024 |access-date=15 August 2024 |website=India Today}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Kumar |first=Raju |date=14 August 2024 |title=Kolkata doctor-rape murder case: FORDA ends strike, AIIMS, other Delhi hospitals to continue protest |url=https://www.indiatvnews.com/news/india/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-case-live-updates-forda-ends-strike-aiims-other-delhi-hospitals-to-continue-protests-cbi-probe-2024-08-14-946825 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240814053327/https://www.indiatvnews.com/news/india/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-case-live-updates-forda-ends-strike-aiims-other-delhi-hospitals-to-continue-protests-cbi-probe-2024-08-14-946825 |archive-date=14 August 2024 |access-date=15 August 2024 |website=www.indiatvnews.com}}</ref> Two days after calling off the strike, FORDA resumed its strike following reports of police violence against protesters and the vandalism during the night of 14–15 August at R.G. Kar Medical College.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Punjabi |first=Tanishq |date=15 August 2024 |editor-last=Paul |editor-first=Rohit |title="Pivotal Moment": Key Doctors' Body Resumes Strike 2 Days After Calling It Off |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/kolkata-rape-kolkata-doctor-rape-rg-kar-attack-rg-kar-hospital-pivotal-moment-key-doctors-body-resumes-strike-2-days-after-calling-it-off-6344532 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240815162949/https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/kolkata-rape-kolkata-doctor-rape-rg-kar-attack-rg-kar-hospital-pivotal-moment-key-doctors-body-resumes-strike-2-days-after-calling-it-off-6344532 |archive-date=15 August 2024 |access-date=15 August 2024 |website=NDTV}}</ref> | |||
[[ | Protests called "Women, [[Reclaim the Night]]" were held in Kolkata and other cities around India on 14 August.<ref>{{Cite web |editor-last=Bose |editor-first=Saikat Kumar |title="Reclaim The Night": Women Seek Justice In Kolkata Doctor Rape-Murder Case, Hold Massive Protests |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-rg-kar-medical-college-to-protest-doctors-rape-murder-womens-reclaim-night-protest-tonight-6336276 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240814173749/https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-rg-kar-medical-college-to-protest-doctors-rape-murder-womens-reclaim-night-protest-tonight-6336276 |archive-date=14 August 2024 |access-date=15 August 2024 |website=NDTV}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Kolkata: Massive night protests after doctor's rape and murder |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/crmwj4z1xpko |access-date=18 August 2024 |website=BBC |archive-date=19 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240819040103/https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/crmwj4z1xpko |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Dhillon |first=Amrit |date=16 August 2024 |title=Indian medics step up strike in protest at doctor's rape and murder |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/article/2024/aug/16/indian-medics-strike-protest-doctor-rape-murder-kolkata |access-date=18 August 2024 |work=The Guardian |issn=0261-3077}}</ref> The goal of the protest has been described as "For Women's independence on the midnight of independence", noting that the protests continued through India's [[Independence Day (India)|Independence Day]] on 15 August.<ref>{{Cite web |title="Night Is Ours": Bengal Women Plan Midnight Protest Over Doctor Rape-Murder |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-rg-kar-medical-college-night-is-ours-bengal-womens-midnight-protest-against-doctor-rape-murder-6325879 |access-date=18 August 2024 |website=NDTV.com |archive-date=19 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240819040106/https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-rg-kar-medical-college-night-is-ours-bengal-womens-midnight-protest-against-doctor-rape-murder-6325879 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite magazine |last=Rajvanshi |first=Astha |date=15 August 2024 |title=Tens of Thousands of Women Protest on India's Independence Day After Murder of Medic |url=https://time.com/7011373/india-kolkata-rape-reclaim-night-march/ |access-date=18 August 2024 |magazine=TIME |archive-date=17 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240817184752/https://time.com/7011373/india-kolkata-rape-reclaim-night-march/ |url-status=live }}</ref> | ||
On 15 August, shortly after midnight, police | On 15 August, shortly after midnight, police deployed tear gas and [[baton charge]]d a crowd of demonstrators at R.G. Kar Medical College after a group toppled a barricade and entered the hospital. The individuals threw stones at the hospital premises and vandalised the emergency ward and the area where the victim was found.<ref name="the economic times-2024">{{Cite news |date=15 August 2024 |title=Kolkata doctor rape-murder case: Uneasy calm in RG Kar Hospital after goons vandalise premises |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-case-uneasy-calm-in-rg-kar-hospital-after-goons-vandalise-premises/articleshow/112539104.cms?from=mdr |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240815085328/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-case-uneasy-calm-in-rg-kar-hospital-after-goons-vandalise-premises/articleshow/112539104.cms?from=mdr |archive-date=15 August 2024 |access-date=15 August 2024 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}</ref> Several policemen and protestors were injured. [[Commissioner of the Kolkata Police|Kolkata Police commissioner]] Vineet Goyal blamed the incident on the "malicious media campaign" against the Kolkata police.<ref name="the economic times-2024" /><ref>{{Cite web |editor-last=Mitra |editor-first=Chandrajit |title=Vandalism At Kolkata Hospital Where Doctor Was Raped, Tear Gas Fired |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/vandalism-at-kolkata-hospital-where-doctor-was-raped-murdered-tear-gas-fired-6339691 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240815195538/https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/vandalism-at-kolkata-hospital-where-doctor-was-raped-murdered-tear-gas-fired-6339691 |archive-date=15 August 2024 |access-date=15 August 2024 |website=NDTV.com}}</ref> Kolkata police detained and later arrested 19 persons responsible for the violence and vandalism at the hospital premises on 15 August.<ref>{{Cite web |date=16 August 2024 |title=Kolkata Doctor Rape-Murder Case Live Updates: 'Absolute failure of state machinery', Calcutta HC on Kolkata RG Kar hospital vandalism |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-live-updates-rg-kar-hospital-vandalism-ima-mamata-banerjee-mahua-moitra-sanjoy-roy/liveblog/112555663.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240816140940/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-live-updates-rg-kar-hospital-vandalism-ima-mamata-banerjee-mahua-moitra-sanjoy-roy/liveblog/112555663.cms |archive-date=16 August 2024 |access-date=16 August 2024 |website=The Times of India}}</ref> | ||
The IMA, along with many medical colleges, held a nationwide strike in all hospitals on 17 August in response to the crime as well as the vandalism at the hospital. This resulted in large scale suspension of medical services in government hospitals and various public hospitals across the country. While emergency services remained functional, OPD services and elective surgeries were cancelled.<ref>{{Cite web |title=National strike held over India doctor's murder |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c89wgzkdw1vo |access-date=17 August 2024 |website=BBC |archive-date=17 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240817042413/https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c89wgzkdw1vo |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Doctors Halt OPD Services Amid Nationwide Strike Over Kolkata Rape Horror |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/doctors-begin-24-hour-nationwide-strike-over-kolkata-rape-murder-10-points-6355326 |access-date=18 August 2024 |website=NDTV.com |archive-date=18 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240818062536/https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/doctors-begin-24-hour-nationwide-strike-over-kolkata-rape-murder-10-points-6355326 |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
The | |||
=== | On 18 August, [[East Bengal FC|East Bengal]]-[[Mohun Bagan Super Giant|Mohun Bagan]] supporters planned a protest at [[Salt Lake Stadium]] during the [[Kolkata Derby]] of the [[2024 Durand Cup|Durand Cup]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=18 August 2024 |title=Kolkata doctor rape-murder case Highlights: East Bengal, Mohun Bagan fans come together to protest Kolkata horror at Salt Lake stadium |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-case-rg-kar-medical-college-live-updates-august-18-2024/article68538966.ece |access-date=19 August 2024 |work=The Hindu |issn=0971-751X |archive-date=22 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240822113445/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-case-rg-kar-medical-college-live-updates-august-18-2024/article68538966.ece |url-status=live }}</ref> But citing security concerns, the match was abandoned on the same day and planned to move elsewhere. Following the cancellation of the match, East Bengal, Mohun Bagan and [[Mohammedan SC (Kolkata)|Mohamedan]] fans came together and started protesting on the street near the stadium.<ref>{{Cite web |date=18 August 2024 |title=Mohun Bagan-East Bengal derby cancelled, supporters of Kolkata arch rivals to hold joint protest against R G Kar rape-murder |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/kolkata/football-derby-cancelled-kolkata-joint-protest-against-rape-murder-case-9520543/lite/ |access-date=19 August 2024 |website=The Indian Express |archive-date=19 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240819040208/https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/kolkata/football-derby-cancelled-kolkata-joint-protest-against-rape-murder-case-9520543/lite/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2024/Aug/20/junior-doctors-in-bengal-continue-to-protest-over-rape-murder-of-medic-health-services-hit-2|title=Junior doctors in Bengal continue to protest over rape-murder of medic, health services hit|date=20 August 2024 |publisher=The New Indian Express|access-date=20 August 2024|archive-date=20 August 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240820051958/https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2024/Aug/20/junior-doctors-in-bengal-continue-to-protest-over-rape-murder-of-medic-health-services-hit-2|url-status=live}}</ref> | ||
On 22 August, staff at AIIMS Delhi, RML hospital, and other public hospitals across India called off their strike following an appeal from the Supreme Court. However, the doctors in West Bengal continued their strike despite assurances from the court.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20240822-key-indian-hospital-ends-stike-but-doctor-rape-protests-rage |title=Key Indian hospital ends strike but doctor rape protests rage |date=22 August 2024 |publisher=France 24 |access-date=22 August 2024 |archive-date=22 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240822142457/https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20240822-key-indian-hospital-ends-stike-but-doctor-rape-protests-rage |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Bengal Doctors Say Will Continue Protest Despite Supreme Court's Appeal |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/bengal-doctors-say-will-continue-protest-despite-supreme-courts-appeal-6394866 |access-date=2024-08-23 |website=NDTV.com |archive-date=23 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240823064402/https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/bengal-doctors-say-will-continue-protest-despite-supreme-courts-appeal-6394866 |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
On 27 August, a rally was organized by the Paschim Banga Chhatra Samaj and the opposition [[Bharatiya Janata Party]] (BJP). The protest was called ''Nabanna Abhijan'' (March to Nabanna, the [[Nabanna (building)|West Bengal secretariat]]). As with [[2021 Nabanna Abhijan|previous ''Nabanna Abhijan'']] protests, there were demands for the resignation of Chief Minister [[Mamata Banerjee]] and demonstrations against her government for failing to ensure the safety and security of its citizens.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-08-27 |title=Kolkata Nabanna March Live: BJP calls a 12-hour West Bengal bandh tomorrow after protests turn violent |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/kolkata-doctor-rape-and-murder-case-live-rg-kar-hospital-nabanna-march-sanjay-roy-sanjay-ghosh-cbi-investigation-doctor-protests-west-nengal-mmata-banerji/liveblog/112821465.cms |access-date=2024-08-27 |website=The Times of India |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-08-27 |title=All you need to know about Nabbana Abhijan of West Bengal |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/etimes/trending/all-you-need-to-know-about-nabbana-abhijan-of-west-bengal/articleshow/112838591.cms |access-date=2024-08-28 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> The Kolkata police termed the march illegal and erected barricades around the building. [[Baton charge|Lathi charge]]s, [[water cannon]]s and [[tear gas]] were used by law enforcement to disperse the crowd after which the protestors resorted to [[Stone throwing|stone pelting]]. Several policemen and protestors were injured during the march.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-08-27 |title=Kolkata doctor rape-murder case: 'Nabanna Abhijan' turns violent as protesters clash with police |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/kolkata/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-case-nabanna-abhiyan-howrah-kolkata-war-zone-protestors-police-9535673/ |access-date=2024-08-27 |website=The Indian Express |language=en |archive-date=27 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240827105351/https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/kolkata/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-case-nabanna-abhiyan-howrah-kolkata-war-zone-protestors-police-9535673/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-08-27 |title=Nabanna March Live Updates: Student rally turns violent as Kolkata police lathicharge, use tear gas shells to disperse protestors enroute Bengal secretariat |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/kolkata/kolkata-rape-murder-case-nabanna-abhiyan-live-updates-bjp-protest-tmc-9534951/ |access-date=2024-08-27 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}</ref> The BJP announced a 12-hour statewide [[bandh]] in West Bengal on 28 August after the violence which erupted during the ''Nabanna Abhijan'' rally and the police crackdown against the protestors.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-08-28 |title=Watch: Saffron-clad protester facing water cannon with national flag triggers TMC-BJP showdown |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/watch-saffron-clad-protester-facing-water-cannon-with-national-flag-triggers-tmc-bjp-showdown-nabanna-abhijan-protest/articleshow/112852725.cms |access-date=2024-08-28 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=28 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240828071559/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/watch-saffron-clad-protester-facing-water-cannon-with-national-flag-triggers-tmc-bjp-showdown-nabanna-abhijan-protest/articleshow/112852725.cms |url-status=live }}</ref> The strike affected rail and road transport services mainly in Kolkata. Violence occurred throughout the day between the workers of the [[Trinamool Congress]] (TMC) and the BJP.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-08-28 |title=Bengal Bandh Today Live Updates: BJP's 12-hour protest partially affects life; rail and road blockades at several places |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/bengal-bandh-28th-august-live-updates-kolkata-rape-murder-rg-kar-hospital-nabanna-abhijan-bjp-west-bengal-mamata-banerjee-sandip-ghosh-sanjay-roy/liveblog/112851085.cms |access-date=2024-08-28 |website=The Times of India |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Bengal Bandh Today After Police Use Tear Gas, Water Canon On Protesters |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/bengal-bandh-kolkata-rape-murder-case-bjps-bangla-bandh-today-after-police-use-tear-gas-water-canon-on-protesters-demanding-mamata-banerjees-resignati-6433544 |access-date=2024-08-28 |website=NDTV.com}}</ref> | |||
[[File:Lalbazar blocked by junior doctors for Justice for RGKar.jpg|left|thumb|Because of barricades, Junior doctors protesting on the road for justice in [[Kolkata, West Bengal|Kolkata]]]] | |||
On 2 September, junior doctors marched towards [[Lalbazar]] from College Square demanding the resignation of the Kolkata Police Commissioner. Since barricades were put up in front of police headquarters, the doctors sat on the road.<ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/kolkata/junior-doctors-march-to-kolkatas-lalbazar-seeking-resignation-of-police-commissioner/article68596470.ece | title=Kolkata rape and murder: Protests shift to Lalbazar and West Bengal Assembly | newspaper=The Hindu | last1=Singh | first1=Shiv Sahay | access-date=2 September 2024 | archive-date=2 September 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240902162654/https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/kolkata/junior-doctors-march-to-kolkatas-lalbazar-seeking-resignation-of-police-commissioner/article68596470.ece | url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
[[File:Mostly women came together on road for Reclaim the night movement in kolkata on 4 September 2024 01.jpg|right|thumb|Mostly women came together on roads for Reclaim the night movement in Kolkata on 4 September 2024]] | |||
At midnight on 4 September, thousands of women across West Bengal marched on the road for the "Reclaim the night" campaign, in the second such gathering since 14 August.<ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/kolkata-rape-murder-reclaim-the-night-protest-thousands-women-west-bengal-demand-justice-2593964-2024-09-05 | title=Bengal turns off lights for 'Reclaim the Night' protest, thousands hit streets | newspaper=India Today | last1=Abbas | first1=Ajmal | access-date=6 September 2024 | archive-date=6 September 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240906115937/https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/kolkata-rape-murder-reclaim-the-night-protest-thousands-women-west-bengal-demand-justice-2593964-2024-09-05 | url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
===Celebrities and politicians=== | |||
[[Hrithik Roshan]], [[Kareena Kapoor Khan]], and [[Alia Bhatt]] were among celebrities who posted on their social media accounts, calling for justice for the victim.<ref>{{cite web |last=Das |first=Kusumika |date=16 August 2024 |title=Hrithik Roshan Seeks FIERCE Justice For Kolkata Rape-Murder Victim Moumita Debnath, Urges For Punishment That |url=https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment-news/bollywood/hrithik-roshan-seeks-fierce-justice-for-kolkata-rape-murder-victim-urges-for-punishment-that-scares-article-112550802 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240816014702/https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment-news/bollywood/hrithik-roshan-seeks-fierce-justice-for-kolkata-rape-murder-victim-urges-for-punishment-that-scares-article-112550802 |archive-date=16 August 2024 |access-date=16 August 2024 |website=Times Now News |publisher=Times Now}}</ref> Other celebrities such as [[Sourav Ganguly]] and [[Mohammed Siraj]] asked for severe punishment to the criminals.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Sourav Ganguly Says 'Punishment Should Be Such That...', When Asked About Kolkata's RG Kar Rape-murder Case |url=https://www.news18.com/cricket/sourav-ganguly-says-punishment-should-be-such-that-when-asked-about-kolkatas-rg-kar-rape-murder-case-9019143.html |access-date=18 August 2024 |website=News18 |archive-date=19 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240819040204/https://www.news18.com/cricket/sourav-ganguly-says-punishment-should-be-such-that-when-asked-about-kolkatas-rg-kar-rape-murder-case-9019143.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=17 August 2024 |title=Sourav Ganguly On Kolkata Rape-Murder Case: 'Punishment Should Be Such That...' |url=https://news.abplive.com/sports/cricket/sourav-ganguly-on-kolkata-rape-murder-case-demands-strict-punishment-statement-rg-kar-medical-college-hospital-1710959 |access-date=18 August 2024 |website=ABP |archive-date=17 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240817143422/https://news.abplive.com/sports/cricket/sourav-ganguly-on-kolkata-rape-murder-case-demands-strict-punishment-statement-rg-kar-medical-college-hospital-1710959 |url-status=live }}</ref> [[Harbhajan Singh]], former cricketer and [[Rajya Sabha]] MP for the [[Aam Aadmi Party]], wrote a letter requesting that the Chief Minister and governor of West Bengal take swift action regarding the case.<ref>{{Cite news |date=18 August 2024 |title='With deep anguish... ': Harbhajan Singh pens 'heartfelt plea' to Mamata Banerjee, calls for systematic change |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-former-cricketer-harbhajan-singh-writes-to-cm-mamata-banerjee-requests-swift-action/articleshow/112604356.cms |access-date=19 August 2024 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=22 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240822113446/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-former-cricketer-harbhajan-singh-writes-to-cm-mamata-banerjee-requests-swift-action/articleshow/112604356.cms |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/celebrities/story/john-abraham-warns-boys-after-kolkata-rape-murder-case-behave-or-i-will-tear-you-apart-2586961-2024-08-23|title=John Abraham on Kolkata rape-murder case: Parents should tell boys to behave|date=23 August 2024 |publisher=India Today|access-date=24 August 2024|archive-date=24 August 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240824022431/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/celebrities/story/john-abraham-warns-boys-after-kolkata-rape-murder-case-behave-or-i-will-tear-you-apart-2586961-2024-08-23|url-status=live}}</ref> On 28 August 2024, President [[Droupadi Murmu]] described the incident as horrific.<ref>{{cite web |title="Enough Is Enough": President On Kolkata Horror, Crimes Against Women |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/president-droupadi-murmu-on-kolkata-rape-murder-case-society-needs-honest-unbiased-self-introspection-6436151 |publisher=NDTV}}</ref> | |||
===International=== | |||
The incident drew international attention, resulting in protests by the Indian community in Australia, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Canada, Germany, the United Kingdom<ref>{{Cite news |date=17 August 2024 |title=Kolkata doctor murder-rape case: UK, Germany, Bangladesh and other countries hold protest to show solidarity |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/kolkata-doctor-murder-rape-case-uk-germany-bangladesh-and-other-countries-hold-protest-to-show-solidarity/articleshow/112583853.cms?from=mdr |access-date=18 August 2024 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389 |archive-date=17 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240817154115/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/kolkata-doctor-murder-rape-case-uk-germany-bangladesh-and-other-countries-hold-protest-to-show-solidarity/articleshow/112583853.cms?from=mdr |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=":2" /><ref>{{Cite news |date=18 August 2024 |title=Kolkata RG Kar horror: Pakistan, Bangladesh and Australia join global protests to express solidarity |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/kolkata-rg-kar-horror-pakistan-bangladesh-and-australia-join-global-protests-to-express-solidarity/articleshow/112596017.cms|access-date=18 August 2024 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=19 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240819041133/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/kolkata-rg-kar-horror-pakistan-bangladesh-and-australia-join-global-protests-to-express-solidarity/articleshow/112596017.cms#:~:text=A%20silent%20protest%20was%20held,,%20a%20Sydney-based%20doctor. |url-status=live }}</ref> and the United States.<ref>{{Cite news |date=19 August 2024 |title=US, UK to Germany, outrage over RG Kar horror spreads in Bengali diaspora huddles, gatherings, protests |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/gallery/in-pictures-united-states-of-america-united-kingdom-to-germany-outrage-over-rg-kar-horror-spreads-in-bengali-diaspora-huddles-gatherings-protests-photogallery/cid/2041618 |work=The Telegraph |access-date=18 August 2024 |archive-date=17 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240817144007/https://www.telegraphindia.com/gallery/in-pictures-united-states-of-america-united-kingdom-to-germany-outrage-over-rg-kar-horror-spreads-in-bengali-diaspora-huddles-gatherings-protests-photogallery/cid/2041618 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=":2">{{Cite news |date=17 August 2024 |title=Kolkata doctor rape-murder case: From New York City to London, demand for justice blurs borders |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-case-from-new-york-city-to-london-demand-for-justice-blurs-borders/articleshow/112575624.cms |access-date=18 August 2024 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=19 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240819041209/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-case-from-new-york-city-to-london-demand-for-justice-blurs-borders/articleshow/112575624.cms |url-status=live}}</ref> Fresh protests were held on 8 September by the [[Indian diaspora]] in solidarity with the victim. Demonstrations were held in 130 cities in 25 countries, including the United States, Japan, Taiwan, Singapore and Australia.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Protests Held Across 25 Countries Over Kolkata Doctor's Rape-Murder |url=https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-rg-kar-hospital-protests-across-25-countries-over-130-cities-over-kolkata-rape-murder-case-6520789 |access-date=2024-09-09 |website=NDTV.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-09-09 |title=Thousands take to streets in 25 countries: Protests over Kolkata rape-murder erupt across 130 cities |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/thousands-take-to-streets-in-25-countries-protests-over-kolkata-rape-murder-erupt-across-130-cities/articleshow/113177913.cms |access-date=2024-09-09 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> | |||
[[File:Moumita Debnath's in graffiti at Dhaka University.jpg|thumb|right|Moumita Debnath's portrait in graffiti at Dhaka University]] | |||
A solidarity rally was also held by students of [[Dhaka University]] in Bangladesh on 16 August in support of the protests in Kolkata, with the slogan ''Awaaz Tolo Nari'' (Raise Your Voice, Women).<ref>{{Cite news |date=16 August 2024 |title=DU students protest in solidarity with Kolkata's demonstrations |url=https://www.dhakatribune.com/bangladesh/dhaka/354968/du-students-protest-in-solidarity-with-kolkata |access-date=2024-09-10 |work=Dhaka Tribune}}</ref> | |||
== West Bengal government == | |||
===Criticism=== | |||
The West Bengal government, led by the [[Trinamool Congress]] (TMC), has been criticised for lapses regarding the security and safety of women in the state.<ref>{{Cite web |date=13 August 2024 |title="West Bengal govt not capable, wants to help accused": Congress leaders criticize Mamata Banerjee over trainee doctor's murder |url=https://www.aninews.in/news/national/politics/west-bengal-govt-not-capable-wants-to-help-accused-congress-leaders-criticize-mamata-banerjee-over-trainee-doctors-murder20240813192442/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240815013433/https://www.aninews.in/news/national/politics/west-bengal-govt-not-capable-wants-to-help-accused-congress-leaders-criticize-mamata-banerjee-over-trainee-doctors-murder20240813192442/ |archive-date=15 August 2024 |access-date=15 August 2024 |website=[[Asian News International|ANI News]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=15 August 2024 |title=Kolkata Death Case: उपद्रवियों ने RG Kar मेडिकल कॉलेज में की तोड़फोड़, पुलिस पर किया पथराव, रेप-मर्डर पर भारी बवाल |url=https://hindi.moneycontrol.com/news/india/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-case-mob-vandalised-crime-scene-during-midnight-protest-bjp-blames-tmc-1919218.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240816043935/https://hindi.moneycontrol.com/news/india/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-case-mob-vandalised-crime-scene-during-midnight-protest-bjp-blames-tmc-1919218.html |archive-date=16 August 2024 |access-date=15 August 2024 |website=moneycontrol |language=hi}}</ref> The Indian Medical Association and members of the opposition [[Bharatiya Janata Party]] accused the West Bengal government, under the leadership of Chief Minister [[Mamata Banerjee]], and state police of being directly accountable for the incident, asserting that the vandalism on the night of 14 August was perpetrated by "TMC goons" in order to destroy evidence related to the case.<ref>{{cite web |date=15 August 2024 |editor-last=Bose |editor-first=Saikat Kumar |title=Mob Vandalised Kolkata Doctor Rape Murder Case Crime Scene? Cops Respond |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-rg-kar-medical-college-mob-vandalised-kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-case-crime-scene-cops-respond-6341933 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240815065553/https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-rg-kar-medical-college-mob-vandalised-kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-case-crime-scene-cops-respond-6341933 |archive-date=15 August 2024 |access-date=15 August 2024 |website=NDTV}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Pandey |first1=Swati |date=15 August 2024 |title=Bengal Government And Vandalism: IMA's Take On The Collapse Of Public Order |url=https://www.newsx.com/national/bengal-government-and-vandalism-imas-take-on-the-collapse-of-public-order/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240816014235/https://www.newsx.com/national/bengal-government-and-vandalism-imas-take-on-the-collapse-of-public-order/ |archive-date=16 August 2024 |access-date=15 August 2024 |website=Newsx}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=15 August 2024 |title=9 arrested after mob tries to vandalise crime scene at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College |url=https://www.businesstoday.in/india/story/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-case-9-arrested-after-mob-tries-to-vandalise-crime-scene-at-rg-kar-medical-college-and-hospital-441651-2024-08-15 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240815124610/https://www.businesstoday.in/india/story/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-case-9-arrested-after-mob-tries-to-vandalise-crime-scene-at-rg-kar-medical-college-and-hospital-441651-2024-08-15 |archive-date=15 August 2024 |access-date=15 August 2024 |website=Business Today}}</ref> TMC MP [[Mahua Moitra]] denied any allegations that her party and the Chief Minister were involved in any systematic cover-up, calling such claims "absolutely wrong and incorrect".<ref>{{cite web |date=15 August 2024 |title=No cover-up by West Bengal govt: Mahua Moitra slams BJP of calling TMC women MPs "Gungi gudiya" |url=https://www.aninews.in/news/national/general-news/no-cover-up-by-west-bengal-govt-mahua-moitra-slams-bjp-of-calling-tmc-women-mps-gungi-gudiya20240815232128/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240815195908/https://www.aninews.in/news/national/general-news/no-cover-up-by-west-bengal-govt-mahua-moitra-slams-bjp-of-calling-tmc-women-mps-gungi-gudiya20240815232128/ |archive-date=15 August 2024 |access-date=15 August 2024 |website=ANI News}}</ref> | |||
===New laws=== | |||
The West Bengal government introduced a new bill in the [[West Bengal Legislative Assembly]] on 3 September 2024 named the Aparajita Woman and Child Bill (West Bengal Criminal Laws and Amendment), 2024. West Bengal became the first state in India to make an amendment in central laws for crimes of a sexual nature against women and children. The bill was passed unanimously in the assembly and was sent to the Governor [[C. V. Ananda Bose]] and to President [[Droupadi Murmu]] for assent. The bill will amend the application of the recently amended [[Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita|Indian penal code]] in West Bengal. It entailed [[Capital punishment in India|death penalty]] for convicts of rape and other unnatural sexual offences if it resulted in death of the victim or left the victim in a vegetative state. It also provides for a life sentence without parole for those convicted in other cases.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-09-03 |title=Bengal anti-rape bill passed amid 'Mamata Banerjee vs BJP' fireworks in assembly |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/west-bengal-anti-rape-bill-aparajita-woman-and-child-bill-introduced-mamata-banerjee-bjp-2592722-2024-09-03 |access-date=2024-09-03 |website=India Today |language=en |archive-date=3 September 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240903100343/https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/west-bengal-anti-rape-bill-aparajita-woman-and-child-bill-introduced-mamata-banerjee-bjp-2592722-2024-09-03 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-09-03 |title=Kolkata rape-murder case: West Bengal government tables anti-rape Bill, what are provisions |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/kolkata-doctors-rape-murder-west-bengal-government-tables-anti-rape-bill-what-are-provisions/articleshow/113013031.cms |access-date=2024-09-03 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-09-03 |title='No one talks about ... ': Under fire over Kolkata rape-murder case, Mamata Banerjee hits back at BJP with Unnao, Hathras |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/no-one-talks-about-under-fire-over-kolkata-rape-murder-case-mamata-banerjee-hits-back-at-bjp-with-unnao-hathras/articleshow/113017457.cms |access-date=2024-09-03 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> In addition, a special task force led by a female officer will be created to help accelerate investigations into rape cases, dedicated courts will be created to fast-track these types of cases, penalties will be introduced for unreasonable delays in investigations, and a time limit of 21 days (with a possible 15 day extension) to issue a decision will be instituted.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mukherjee |first=Trisha |date=2024-09-03 |title=West Bengal Assembly in India passes bill mandating life in prison or death penalty for rape convictions |url=https://abcnews.go.com/International/west-bengal-assembly-india-passes-bill-mandating-life/story?id=113344652 |access-date=2024-09-06 |website=ABC News |language=en |archive-date=6 September 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240906183832/https://abcnews.go.com/International/west-bengal-assembly-india-passes-bill-mandating-life/story?id=113344652 |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
==Negotiations== | |||
Protesting medical fraternity ignored the request of the Supreme Court to cease protests by 10 September and staged a sit-in protest at the headquarters of the West Bengal health department, Swasthya Bhavan in the [[Bidhannagar|Salt Lake]] area of Kolkata after which they were invited for talks with the Chief Minister, Mamata Banerjee.<ref name="indianexpress.com">{{Cite web |date=2024-09-11 |title=Kolkata Doctor Rape-Murder Case Highlights: 'Ready to resign as CM, want justice for RG Kar victim,' says Mamata as doctors refuse to meet without live telecast |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/kolkata/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-case-live-updates-rg-kar-mamata-banerjee-9561346/ |access-date=2024-09-13 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Kolkata rape: India doctors defy court order to continue strike |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cd6y60v2390o |access-date=2024-09-13 |website=www.bbc.com |language=en-GB}}</ref> | |||
The doctors sought a delegation of 30 members to represent them which was accepted by the state government after an initial request to limit the number to 15. The delegation sought a live telecast of the negotiations which was not agreed by the government due to which the delegation did not attend the meeting with the Chief Minister.<ref name="indianexpress.com"/> Mamata Banerjee remarked that she was ready to resign and she too, wants justice for the victim. However, the protesting medical fraternity remarked that they did not seek her resignation.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kolkata Rape-Murder Highlights {{!}} Doctors still hopeful of talks with Mamata as CM reiterates stance on wanting justice |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/india/west-bengal/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-case-live-updates-west-bengal-cbi-mamata-banerjee-tmc-supreme-court-bjp-protests-cease-work-sanjoy-roy-sandip-ghosh-latest-news-ima-ed-3187300 |access-date=2024-09-13 |website=Deccan Herald |language=en}}</ref> | |||
The Chief Minister paid a surprise visit to the protesting doctors at their site of sit-it near the Swasthya Bhavan on 14 September. She said that she was also "troubled by the injustice" and claimed that she too couldn't sleep due to the issue. She proposed that she would look into their demands and that the protestors should return to their duties. She also said that the government would not take any action against the doctors as it was a democratic protest. | |||
<blockquote>I have come forward by leading the student movement, I have also struggled a lot in my life, I understand your struggle. I am not worried about my position. It rained all night yesterday, you were sitting here protesting, I was worried all night. After listening to your demands, I will study them. I do not run the government alone; I will definitely find a solution by studying your demands with senior officials. Whoever is found guilty will definitely be punished. I am asking for some time from you. The state government will not take any action against you (protesting doctors). I request you to return to work. All the work related to the development, infrastructure, security of the hospital has been started and will be done further.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-09-14 |title=Kolkata Doctor Rape-Murder Case Live Updates: Came to meet you as your 'didi', CM Mamata Banerjee says this is her 'last attempt' to resolve doctors crisis |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-case-live-updates-supreme-court-hearing-rg-kar-hospital-sandip-ghosh-accused-sanjay-roy-west-bengal-doctors-protest/liveblog/113276298.cms |access-date=2024-09-14 |website=The Times of India |language=en}}</ref> | |||
- CM Mamata Banerjee | |||
</blockquote> | |||
She announced that the patient welfare committees of all the government hospitals stand dissolved with immediate effect. The doctors said, after the visit, that they were ready to talks with the government and that their demands are not unjustified.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-09-13 |title=Kolkata rape-murder case live updates: 'Will not take action against you… this is not UP,' says Mamata, appeals to protesting doctors to return to work |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/kolkata/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-case-live-updates-protests-mamata-rg-kar-9565268/ |access-date=2024-09-14 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-09-14 |title='This is my last attempt to resolve crisis': West Bengal CM Mamata makes surprise visit to protest site of junior doctors |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/this-is-my-last-attempt-to-resolve-crisis-west-bengal-cm-mamata-makes-surprise-visit-to-protest-site-of-junior-doctors/articleshow/113345384.cms |access-date=2024-09-14 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> | |||
on September 17 2024, Police commissioner Vineet Goyal was removed from his post alleged of bribery.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/mamata-banerjee-protesting-doctors-demand-kolkata-police-commissioner-vineet-goyal-to-be-removed-2600968-2024-09-17 |title=Mamata Banerjee agrees to doctors' demands, announces removal of Kolkata top cop|publisher=India Today}}</ref> | |||
== See also == | == See also == | ||
* [[2012 Delhi gang rape and murder]] | |||
* [[2019 India doctors' strike]] | |||
* [[Aruna Shanbaug case]] | |||
* [[Rape in India]] | * [[Rape in India]] | ||
* | * {{slink|Violence against healthcare professionals by country|India}} | ||
== References == | == References == | ||
| Line 74: | Line 136: | ||
== External links == | == External links == | ||
{{Commons category}} | * {{Commons category-inline}} | ||
{{Rape in India}} | {{Rape in India}} | ||
{{DEFAULTSORT: | |||
[[Category:2024 | {{DEFAULTSORT:Kolkata rape and murder incident, 2024}} | ||
[[Category:2024 crimes in India]] | |||
[[Category:21st century in Kolkata]] | |||
[[Category:August 2024 crimes in Asia]] | [[Category:August 2024 crimes in Asia]] | ||
[[Category:August 2024 events in India]] | [[Category:August 2024 events in India]] | ||
[[Category:Crime in Kolkata]] | [[Category:Crime in Kolkata|2024 rape and murder]] | ||
[[Category:Deaths by strangulation]] | |||
[[Category:Incidents of violence against women]] | [[Category:Incidents of violence against women]] | ||
[[Category:Rape in India]] | [[Category:Rape in India]] | ||
[[Category:Rape in the 2020s]] | |||
[[Category:Violence against women in India]] | [[Category:Violence against women in India]] | ||