Kolkata Doctor's Death: Arrest Made, Rape Charges Added; Mamata Banerjee Demands Strictest Punishment

As Kolkata reels from the tragic death of a junior doctor in a hospital, could the arrest of Sanjoy Roy and the addition of rape charges shed light on systemic issues in hospital security and justice?

Police Arrest Sanjoy Roy in Doctor's Death Case

Police on Saturday arrested a man identified as Sanjoy Roy in connection with the death of a junior doctor at Kolkata’s state-run R G Kar Medical College and Hospital. The case, initially registered as murder, now includes rape charges. Kolkata police have formed a special investigation team (INS Kolkata hospital) to probe the case.

Doctor Found Dead with Multiple Injuries

The 31-year-old doctor was found dead at a seminar hall in the hospital on Friday morning. According to the doctors' report, the body was discovered with multiple injuries and blood, and was only partially clothed.

Protests Erupt at Hospital

The incident has triggered a major protest in the hospital, with many doctors ceasing work to demand a thorough probe. On Saturday, doctors from other medical colleges have also joined the protest. Police sources said the accused, Sanjoy Roy, was arrested based on CCTV footage from the hospital. This has raised concerns about the security of doctors in Indian hospitals and the urgent need for improved measures.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's Response

Reacting to the incident, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said, “The incident is unfortunate and despicable. It feels like a personal loss to me. Their [doctors'] anger and demands are justified and I support it.” She emphasized that if necessary, the accused should face the strictest punishment, even though she is not a proponent of capital punishment. This reflects the broader concerns about the safety and work of doctors in hospitals across India.

Family's Grief and Hospital's Response

The deceased doctor’s father told reporters Friday that he had talked to his daughter on the previous day at 11 pm. “She sounded very normal. I am shocked… She was lying half naked. We suspect she has been raped and murdered,” he said. According to hospital sources, the doctor was on duty until 2 am on Friday. The hospital has set up two panels to look into the matter – one for internal inquiry and another for postmortem. The case has also brought to light the challenges faced by doctors working in hospitals and the need for better safety protocols.

Government and Party Reactions

According to a TMC leader, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee spoke to the family and assured all help and support to them. Additionally, TMC Rajya Sabha MP Santanu Sen (Doctor Sen) promised a “thorough and fair investigation into the case.” “We will ensure that the truth will prevail. If anyone is found involved, strict action will be taken,” Sen said. This situation highlights the need for comprehensive reforms in how medical institutions handle such sensitive cases and the overall work environment for doctors.