India's Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has apprehended Sandip Ghosh, the former principal of R.G. Kar Medical College in Kolkata, on charges of financial irregularities. This arrest is connected to the investigation of a young female doctor's brutal assault and killing on the institution's grounds.
R.G. Kar Medical College, established in 1886 as Belgachia Medical School, is one of India's oldest medical institutions. Named after Sir Rashbehari Ghosh, a prominent Indian educationist, the college has a rich history spanning over a century.
The CBI, India's premier investigating agency established in 1963, also detained two hospital supply vendors and a close associate of Ghosh. This development comes approximately four weeks after the discovery of the 31-year-old doctor's body, which sparked widespread demonstrations by medical professionals.
Protesters are demanding enhanced safety measures for women in the workplace and justice for the victim. This incident has reignited discussions about the persistent issue of sexual violence against women in India, despite the implementation of stricter laws following the infamous 2012 Delhi gang-rape case.
The Criminal Law (Amendment) Act of 2013, passed in response to the Delhi case, strengthened India's rape laws. However, statistics reveal that sexual violence remains a significant concern. The National Crime Records Bureau reported 31,677 rape cases in India in 2021, with a conviction rate of around 28%.
Last month, authorities arrested a police volunteer, who was tasked with assisting police personnel and their families with hospital admissions, in connection with the crime. This case has also brought attention to the role of police volunteers in community policing initiatives.
The incident at R.G. Kar Medical College has raised questions about the safety protocols in medical institutions. The National Medical Commission (NMC), which replaced the Medical Council of India in 2020, regulates medical colleges in the country and may face pressure to implement stricter safety guidelines.
As the investigation continues, this case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges in ensuring women's safety in India, particularly in professional environments.
"The arrest of the former principal and other individuals is a significant step in our investigation. We are committed to uncovering the truth and ensuring justice is served."
This case has also drawn parallels to the #MeToo movement, which gained significant traction in India in 2018, highlighting the prevalence of workplace sexual harassment. As the legal proceedings unfold, the nation watches closely, hoping for justice and meaningful changes to protect women in all sectors of society.