Kolkata, August 12, 2024: The tragic rape and murder of a 31-year-old woman trainee doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital have sparked widespread protests, leading to the resignation of the college principal, Dr. Sandip Ghosh. The incident, which occurred on August 9, has led to a nationwide outcry, with junior doctors, interns, and postgraduate trainees at RG Kar Medical College continuing their strike for the fourth consecutive day.
Dr. Ghosh, addressing the media, announced his resignation, stating, “I am getting defamed on social media following this heinous crime. The victim was like my daughter. As a parent, I resign… This should not happen to anyone in the future.” The striking doctors have demanded a magisterial inquiry into the incident to ensure justice for their colleague.
Patients have been severely impacted, as outdoor centres at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital remain closed. The striking doctors, who had been attending to emergency duties, have now ceased all responsibilities.
In solidarity, doctors at ten government hospitals in Delhi, including Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital, have joined the protest, demanding a CBI inquiry into the incident and better security for medical practitioners nationwide. While OPD services have been suspended, emergency services continue.
The Kolkata Police’s detective department is currently questioning several doctors and staff members at RG Kar Medical College who were on duty the night of the incident.
