The National Commission for Women (NCW) has voiced serious concerns regarding potential evidence tampering at the site where a 31-year-old trainee doctor was raped and murdered at RG Kar Medical Hospital in Kolkata. The NCW has criticized the handling of the crime scene and highlighted significant lapses in security and infrastructure at the hospital.
Allegations of Evidence Tampering
- Sudden Renovations: The NCW reported that the crime scene underwent unexpected renovations soon after the incident, raising suspicions of evidence tampering.
- Lack of Immediate Action: The Commission criticized Kolkata Police for not sealing the crime scene immediately, which could have preserved crucial evidence.
Security and Infrastructure Lapses
The NCW’s preliminary inquiry revealed alarming gaps in the hospital’s security and infrastructure:
- Security Failures: There were no security guards present during the incident, leaving on-call interns, doctors, and nurses vulnerable, especially during night shifts.
- Poor Amenities: The hospital was found lacking basic facilities for female medical staff, including poorly maintained washrooms, inadequate lighting, and an absence of necessary security measures.
Concerns Over the Investigation
The NCW also expressed doubts about the ongoing investigation:
- Incomplete Questioning: The former Principal of the hospital, who resigned after the incident, has not been fully questioned, raising concerns about the thoroughness of the investigation.
- Civic Volunteer Arrested: A civic volunteer was arrested in connection with the crime, but the NCW remains concerned about the overall handling of the case.
NCW’s Actions
In response to media reports, the NCW took suo motu cognizance of the incident and launched an inquiry:
- Letter to Police Commissioner: On August 10, 2024, the NCW sent a letter to the Commissioner of Police, Kolkata, demanding immediate and thorough action.
- Inquiry Committee: The NCW formed a two-member Inquiry Committee, including NCW member Delina Khondgup and advocate Soma Chaudhary from the West Bengal State Legal Services Authority, to ensure a comprehensive investigation.
Conclusion
The NCW’s findings have raised serious concerns about the handling of the crime scene and the broader issues of security and infrastructure at RG Kar Medical Hospital. As the investigation continues, the NCW’s report highlights the need for accountability and thoroughness to ensure justice is served in this tragic case.
