Supreme Court Criticizes West Bengal Over Delayed FIR in Medic's Rape-Murder Case

The Supreme Court has criticized the West Bengal government for delays in filing an FIR over the rape and murder of a young doctor at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College. The top court emphasized the broader issues of safety for female doctors, calling for national protocols to ensure secure working environments.

The Supreme Court has labeled the rape and murder case of a medic at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital as horrific, rebuking the West Bengal government for delays in filing the FIR. Officials noted that this incident highlights systemic issues concerning the safety of doctors across India.

Chief Justice DY Chandrachud's bench, which took cognizance of the matter, stressed that unsafe working conditions for women lead to a denial of their right to equality. The court lambasted the state's delay in responding to the alleged rape-murder and questioned the hospital's initial attempt to classify the crime as a suicide.

Authorities were also called out for the large mob's entrance into the hospital and the questionable reappointment of the college’s principal. The top court advocating for a national protocol for the safety of young doctors, also warned that disciplinary measures should not suppress protestors, deeming it a time of national catharsis.

The case has garnered national attention, with the Calcutta High Court transferring the probe from the Kolkata Police to the CBI. Doctors have been striking for over a week, demanding justice and preventive measures to avoid future incidents.