The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) informed the Supreme Court on Tuesday that its investigation into the rape and murder case of a doctor from RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata was progressing with “utmost seriousness.”
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the CBI, submitted the agency’s fifth status report before a bench comprising Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud, and Justices J B Pardiwala and Manoj Misra. He confirmed that the chargesheet against the accused, Sanjay Roy, was filed on October 7, and a Sealdah court had taken cognizance of the matter.
The Supreme Court acknowledged that the CBI was still investigating the involvement of other suspects and requested another status report within three weeks.
The bench also addressed concerns regarding the National Task Force (NTF) responsible for recommending improvements in the safety of medical professionals. The court observed that no meetings had been held since early September and directed the central government to expedite the process, ensuring regular meetings of subgroups and formulation of recommendations on the safety of doctors in Kolkata within three weeks.
Additionally, the court criticized the West Bengal government for the slow progress on the installation of CCTV cameras, as well as the construction of toilets and separate resting rooms in government medical colleges, demanding the completion of these projects by October 15.
The CBI’s involvement began following an order from the Calcutta High Court, which transferred the case to the agency on August 13. This decision came in light of delays and concerns over the handling of the case by Kolkata police. The investigation had revealed disturbing findings, which the Supreme Court noted without sharing specific details due to the sensitive nature of the case.
This horrific incident had sparked nationwide protests, particularly in the medical community, and resulted in the arrest of a civic volunteer by Kolkata police soon after the crime occurred.
(With inputs from agency)
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