Supreme Court Orders Removal of Victim Photos, Addresses Doctors' Safety and Post-Mortem Concerns

The Supreme Court has mandated the immediate removal of victim photos from social media and assured doctors of no action if they return to work by tomorrow. The court also highlighted issues in a rape and murder case, including mishandled evidence, and called for a CBI status update by next week.

The Supreme Court on Monday mandated the immediate removal of all photos of the victim from social media. The apex court also emphasized that no punitive action should be taken against doctors returning to work by 5 PM tomorrow. However, further absence might lead to disciplinary measures by the state government. Senior Advocate Geeta Luthra mentioned threats faced by doctors. The court directed that hospitals ensure safety and security conditions for doctors, including adequate toilet facilities for both genders.

Concerns were raised by the court regarding the post-mortem report in an alleged rape and murder case. Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, representing the West Bengal government, noted multiple issues, including the improper handling of a vaginal swab, which should have been preserved at 4 degrees Celsius. Solicitor General (SG) Tushar Mehta from the CBI highlighted the absence of the time the post-mortem was conducted from the report, which is crucial in such cases. He noted that the CBI's investigation started five days post-incident, impacting evidence collection.

Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud asked SG Mehta if the necessary documents were available when the body was sent for post-mortem. Senior Advocate Sibal requested more time to produce the documents. Mehta confirmed they were missing from provided files. CJI Chandrachud directed the CBI to submit an updated status report by the next week, with the court reviewing the matter on Tuesday, September 17. Sibal also reported 23 deaths due to lack of medical attention, which occurred during doctors' absence. The court sought clarity on the timing and handling of the registration of the report for unnatural death, questioning discrepancies highlighted by Sibal.

The court inquired about related CCTV footage, and SG Mehta confirmed the transfer of four video clips to the CBI. These samples are being sent to AIIMS and other forensic labs for further analysis. The Supreme Court also mandated enhanced security at RG Kar Medical College, including accommodations for CISF personnel, and instructed that no one should enter emergency wards without proper identification.

(With inputs from agencies.)