Kolkata horror: Supreme Court to hear Kolkata doctor murder case today amid ongoing protests

PTC News Desk: As nationwide protests continue in response to the Kolkata rape and murder case, the Supreme Court is set to hear the plea related to the incident today. The hearing will be conducted by a bench led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, which has prioritized the case on the cause list for 10:30 am.

The case, titled “In Re: Alleged Rape and Murder Incident of a Trainee Doctor in RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, Kolkata, and Related Issues,” is significant as it is being heard while the Calcutta High Court is also involved. The High Court had previously transferred the investigation to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

Key Points

1. The Kolkata rape and murder case has underscored several critical issues, including concerns about evidence integrity, adherence to legal procedures, and the safety of healthcare professionals and women in the workplace. The incident has also placed the ruling Trinamool Congress under scrutiny, as the victim’s parents have publicly criticised Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for the Kolkata police’s handling of the investigation.
2. With the Supreme Court now involved, the case is expected to receive heightened judicial scrutiny, particularly in light of the nationwide strike organized by doctors. The Federation of Residents of Doctors Association (FORDA) has filed an intervention plea with the Supreme Court, requesting the deployment of central forces to safeguard the staff at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital until the investigation is concluded.
3. FORDA has also urged the Supreme Court to establish new guidelines to better protect healthcare professionals, highlighting the need for enhanced security measures and legal protections in light of the ongoing crisis.
4. In addition, the Delhi Medical Association has approached the Supreme Court, seeking to be included as a party in the suo-motu case related to the Kolkata incident. The Association has requested the formation of a panel, led by a former Supreme Court judge, to develop a comprehensive scheme for the protection of doctors and medical staff against violence in hospitals and public healthcare facilities. This proposed module aims to address and mitigate the risks faced by healthcare personnel in their work environments.

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