Following massive protests across India over the alleged rape-murder of a female doctor at a state-run hospital in West Bengal few days ago, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has initiated an inquiry into the case, after a court mandate. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has backed the CBI’s involvement but has criticised Opposition parties for fueling the ongoing protests.
The CBI began its investigation on Wednesday, sending a 25-member team led by an additional director, including forensic experts, to the RG Kar Medical College where the doctor’s body was discovered on August 9. The probe follows a petition by the doctor’s family, leading to the transfer of key suspect Sanjoy Roy from Kolkata Police to the CBI.
After conducting his medical tests at the state-run SSKM Hospital, Kolkata Police handed over Roy to the CBI at the CGO Complex in Kolkata.
The ongoing protests, now in their sixth day, have severely disrupted healthcare services in West Bengal, with junior doctors on strike demanding justice.
Banerjee has called on striking doctors to resume their duties, stressing the impact on patient care.
Meanwhile, TMC supremo Banerjee, drawing parallels with recent student unrest in Bangladesh that led to the ousting of the Awami League government, accused the CPI(M) and BJP of attempting to seize power through these protests. She also demanded justice and urged the CBI to resolve the case by Sunday.
Further, Rahul Gandhi, leader of the opposition Congress party, criticised the handling of the case and questioned the safety of medical professionals. The TMC rebutted Gandhi’s remarks, accusing him of political opportunism and pointing out Congress’s own track record on women’s safety.
Meanwhile, thousands of women are expected to participate in “Women, Reclaim the Night” protests across West Bengal on Wednesday night, coinciding with Independence Day celebrations.
Senior TMC leaders have joined the solidarity demonstrations, while Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury has condemned the current law and order situation in the state.