Today, On 11th February, The Calcutta High Court emphasized that corruption in influential positions significantly undermines public confidence while hearing the RG Kar case. The court stressed the need for transparency and accountability in governance to maintain trust in public institutions. Allegations of corruption in the case have raised concerns over ethical misconduct in administrative affairs. The court’s remarks highlight the broader impact of corruption on society and the justice system.
Calcutta: During an appeal by Sandip Ghosh, the former principal of R G Kar Medical College, seeking a delay in the framing of charges in a financial irregularities case, the Calcutta High Court remarked on Tuesday that corruption in high places severely undermines public trust in state affairs.
The division bench, led by Justice Joymalya Bagchi, noted that the special court handling the trial could schedule a date before the next high court hearing.
Ghosh, along with four others, was arrested by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for alleged financial irregularities during his tenure at the medical college.
The bench, which also included Justice Gaurang Kanth, emphasized the seriousness of the allegations, stating,
“Corruption in high places has serious impact on public confidence in the affairs of the state.”
They added,
“A prompt trial of persons accused of corruption would reinforce the faith of the people in the justice delivery system.”
Furthermore, the court highlighted that “the accused who are in custody have a right to fair and prompt trial,” asserting that the need for a swift trial is essential for the administration of justice.
At the start of the hearing, the CBI presented a report to the division bench, which acknowledged that the agency would provide electronic or scanned copies of the documents to the accused by Wednesday.
The bench advised that the accused could verify these documents and request the CBI to submit a report to the trial judge.
Dr. Sandip Ghosh, who served as the principal of RG Kar Medical College and Hospital from February 2021 until September 2023, is at the center of this investigation. His tenure at the institution has been marred by controversy, especially in light of his brief removal and subsequent reinstatement.
Dr. Ghosh was transferred in October 2023 but inexplicably resumed his role at the hospital within a month, a move that raised many eyebrows. His position at the hospital continued until a tragic incident occurred the brutal rape and murder of a trainee doctor, which led to his removal from the post.