CBI Investigates Former Principal in Doctor's Rape and Murder Case

CBI Investigates : The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is currently examining the call records and messages of Dr. Sandip Ghosh, the former principal of RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. This investigation is part of their probe into the rape and murder of a female doctor, according to PTI.

On August 18 (Sunday), Dr. Ghosh faced CBI questioning for the third consecutive day. He was interrogated for over 13 hours at the Salt Lake office.

Details Sought from Dr. Ghosh

During the questioning, Ghosh was required to provide details about his phone calls before and after the incident at the hospital. The CBI asked him to explain his actions upon learning of the doctor’s death, including who he contacted and why he delayed informing the parents for nearly three hours. The investigators are considering contacting the mobile service provider to obtain more information about Ghosh’s calls and data usage.

Additionally, Ghosh was asked about the renovation of rooms near the seminar hall in the emergency building of the hospital following the incident. The CBI aims to determine if there was any conspiracy or pre-planning involved in the crime and to assess Ghosh's potential involvement.

Verification of Statements

CBI agents are cross-checking Ghosh’s statements with those of other doctors and interns who were on duty the night of the incident. Over 20 people, including some Kolkata Police officers, have been questioned so far.

Allegations from Former Colleagues

Report suggests  that several of Dr. Ghosh’s former colleagues have made serious allegations against him. They claim that his management of RG Kar Hospital was marked by corruption, financial misconduct, extortion, and other ethical violations. One anonymous professor alleged that Ghosh secured the principal position despite ranking 16th in interviews.

Dr. Akhtar Ali, a former deputy superintendent, accused Ghosh of corruption, including taking bribes and extorting money. Ali also criticized Ghosh’s resignation as a mere formality, noting that Ghosh was quickly appointed to another principal position.

A former classmate mentioned that while Ghosh was not notorious during college, he changed with power. Allegations of rapid and questionable career advancements were also noted.

State Government Measures

In response to the incident, the West Bengal government announced new safety measures for women in workplaces on August 17. Alapan Bandyopadhyay, Chief Advisor to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, outlined plans to create designated retiring rooms and CCTV-monitored ‘safe zones’ in state-run hospitals, especially for night shifts.

Also read: State-by-State Breakdown of Rape Cases in India; What does 2022 report states?

Legal Proceedings

The case, involving the body of the postgraduate trainee doctor found on August 9 in the hospital seminar hall, has seen significant legal action. A civic volunteer was arrested, and the Calcutta High Court has transferred the investigation to the CBI. The Supreme Court has also taken suo motu cognizance of the case and is scheduled to hear it on August 20.