Nationwide Protests and CBI Investigations Intensify Amidst Demands for Enhanced Security
In the most recent development, the Supreme Court of India has taken suo motu cognizance of the rape and murder of a 31-year-old resident doctor at Kolkata’s R G Kar Medical College and Hospital.
Chief Justice of India (CJI) D Y Chandrachud will lead a three-judge bench to hear the case on August 20, marking a significant intervention by the highest court in response to widespread outrage.
The Supreme Court has taken suo motu cognizance of the rape and murder of a doctor at RG Kar Hospital in Kolkata. A bench led by Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud will hear the matter on Tuesday. pic.twitter.com/4QrfXrkn1x
— IANS (@ians_india) August 18, 2024
Nationwide Medical Strike
This action comes in the wake of a 24-hour nationwide strike by the Indian Medical Association (IMA), which took place as a reaction to the tragic incident. Doctors from both government and private hospitals participated in the strike, which involved halting routine outpatient department (OPD) services and elective surgeries while maintaining essential and emergency services.
Continued Protests by Resident Doctors
Although the IMA’s strike concluded early Sunday, protests have persisted among resident doctors across major hospitals in India. The demonstrations, which have continued for a week, highlight ongoing concerns over the safety of healthcare professionals. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare’s promise to form a committee to address these concerns has been met with skepticism by the medical community, which is disillusioned by previous ineffective measures.
CBI Intensifies Investigation
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is actively probing the case, having questioned over 20 individuals, including Kolkata Police officers and the former principal of R G Kar Medical College and Hospital, Sandip Ghosh. Ghosh, who resigned two days after the discovery of the woman’s body on August 9, has been interrogated for three consecutive days regarding his call records and communications.
Home Ministry Orders Regular Reports
In response to the escalating situation, the Union Home Ministry has mandated that all state police forces submit situational reports every two hours. This directive aims to ensure that the law and order situation is continuously monitored amid the ongoing protests by doctors, nursing staff, and other concerned parties.
The Supreme Court’s involvement and the ongoing investigations reflect the gravity of the situation, as the nation grapples with calls for justice and improved safety measures for healthcare workers. The coming days will be crucial in determining the trajectory of the case and the broader implications for hospital security and professional safety across India.
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