The parents of a Kolkata doctor who was brutally raped and murdered last month have come forward with serious allegations against the police, accusing them of attempting to cover up the crime. The incident occurred during the doctor's night shift and has sparked widespread protests throughout West Bengal, with citizens demanding justice.
The grieving parents joined a large protest at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, where their 31-year-old daughter's body was discovered on August 9. During the demonstration, her father claimed that police had tried to prevent a full investigation from the outset. He recounted that the family was not allowed to see their daughter’s body immediately after her death and was instead kept waiting at the police station while the post-mortem was conducted.
When the body was finally returned to them, the father further alleged that a senior police officer offered the family money, which they refused. The parents have since become active participants in the protests, standing in solidarity with junior doctors and others seeking justice for their daughter.
Kolkata Police have faced sharp criticism from opposition parties and the general public over their handling of the case. Many are questioning how the accused, Sanjoy Roy, was able to freely access all areas of the government-run hospital. Reports suggest that Roy may have been involved in illegal activities, including arranging hospital beds for patients in exchange for bribes.
Protesters have taken to the streets, carrying placards and sharing slogans on social media that call out the police, reminding them of their duty to protect everyone, including their own daughters.
Amidst the public outcry, the Calcutta High Court has ordered the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to take over the case. The CBI has already arrested Dr. Sandip Ghosh, the former principal of RG Kar Medical College, in connection with alleged financial misconduct at the hospital.
In response to the growing demand for stricter measures against sexual violence, the West Bengal Assembly recently passed a new anti-rape bill. The legislation proposes capital punishment for rape convicts if their crime leads to the victim’s death or leaves her in a vegetative state.