The Supreme Court has taken suo moto cognizance of the rape and killing of a junior doctor at Kolkata's state-run R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital last week.
As per the cause list uploaded on the website of the apex court, a three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud will hear the matter titled "Alleged rape and murder incident of a trainee doctor in R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital, Kolkata, and related issues" on Tuesday.
Justice J.B. Pardiwala and Justice Manoj Misra will be the other two members on the bench.
A letter petition was sent to CJI Chandrachud, praying for direction upon the Supreme Court to take suo moto cognizance of the incident and mandating an immediate and impartial investigation into the matter on Friday.
It prayed for issuance of directions for improving security arrangements in medical colleges and hospitals across the country to ensure that such incidents do not recur in future and formulation of comprehensive guidelines to protect medical professionals and institutions.
Through advocate Satyam Singh, the petition by Dr. Monica Singh had prayed upon the Supreme Court to take up judicial oversight in the RG Kar case so that an unbiased investigation can be conducted.
“The attack on the R.G. Kar Medical College was not merely an isolated incident of violence, but a direct assault on the healthcare system of our nation. It undermines the safety and security of those who have dedicated their lives to serving others.
Swift and decisive action by the Supreme Court is essential to restore faith in the rule of law and to ensure the uninterrupted functioning of our medical institutions,” the plea read.
“The recent incidents reveal a critical gap in ensuring the safety of women, particularly in sectors with a high representation of female employees, such as the medical field. Women constitute a significant portion of the workforce in healthcare as doctors, nurses, receptionists, and other roles. They often work long hours and face unique challenges that require special attention to ensure their safety,” it added.
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