The Impressive TimesNew Delhi September 9 2024: In a shocking revelation during proceedings related to the gruesome rape and murder of a postgraduate medical student at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, the West Bengal Health Department informed the Supreme Court that 23 individuals have died as a direct consequence of ongoing doctors’ strikes. This alarming report was submitted as the apex court examines the case, which has garnered nationwide attention and sparked widespread protests. Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing on behalf of the West Bengal government, submitted the status report to a bench headed by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud. During the hearing, Sibal stated, “A status report has been filed. The state health department has filed a report. Twenty-three people have died as doctors are on strike.” This statement underscores the critical situation unfolding in the state’s healthcare system due to the protests. The Supreme Court is currently reviewing the status reports submitted by both the state government and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) regarding the case. The court’s attention has been particularly focused on the delayed response of Kolkata Police in registering a case following the tragic incident, which has raised serious concerns about the procedural integrity and timeliness of law enforcement.
On August 22, the Supreme Court expressed its dismay over the police’s handling of the situation, criticizing the delays surrounding the registration of a case related to the unnatural death of the female doctor. The court described the delays and procedural timeline as “extremely disturbing,” and questioned the sequence of events leading up to the registration of the FIR. In response to the incident, the Supreme Court had previously established a 10-member National Task Force (NTF) tasked with developing protocols aimed at safeguarding healthcare professionals and addressing their grievances. The court condemned the West Bengal government for its failure to take prompt action, which allowed for significant vandalism at the hospital. The alleged rape and murder of the junior doctor within the confines of the hospital’s seminar hall has ignited widespread outrage across the country. Protests demanding justice and safety for medical professionals have intensified, reflecting the broader societal concern over the safety and security of women in India. The situation remains tense as the Supreme Court continues to hear the case and monitor the developments in the ongoing strike by healthcare workers.
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