Today, On 30th September, the Supreme Court requested a progress report from the National Task Force regarding the Kolkata rape case, rescheduling the next hearing to October 14. The Chief Justice criticized West Bengal’s slow infrastructure improvements for safety, particularly related to CCTVs and medical facility upgrades, while emphasizing victim identity protection amidst ongoing investigations.
Today(17th Sept), Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal has informed the Supreme Court of threats of rape and physical harm against junior lawyers in his chamber, linked to their representation in the RG Kar Medical College rape-murder case. The threats are a response to their involvement in the sensitive case.
The Supreme Court today took up the RG Kar Rape-Murder case suo motu, with a bench led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud. The CBI presented its status report while Solicitor General Tushar Mehta and advocate Kapil Sibal represented the central agency and West Bengal government, respectively. The case involves widespread protests and calls for increased protection for medical professionals.
The President of the Indian Medical Association (IMA) urged doctors to prioritize patient care and trust the Supreme Court with justice in the Kolkata rape-murder case. The victim’s tragic death sparked nationwide outrage and protests, leading to the involvement of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and calls for better safety measures in medical facilities.
Adish Aggarwala cautioned SCBA President Kapil Sibal about a potential no-confidence motion due to a controversial resolution regarding the RG Kar incident. He accused Sibal of a conflict of interest and demanded a public apology and withdrawal of the resolution. The Supreme Court also voiced concerns about the case and the handling by West Bengal police.
Today, On 22nd August, Members of the SCBA Executive Committee objected to a resolution signed by Kapil Sibal regarding the RG Kar Hospital incident, claiming it was not presented for consideration. The resolution expressed concern over prevailing malaise and hoped to prevent similar incidents across the country. The Supreme Court also criticized the handling of the case by the West Bengal police.
Today, On 22nd August, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to introduce tougher anti-rape legislation and fast-track courts, following a recent tragic incident. She emphasized the need for swift justice, highlighting the alarming daily occurrence of nearly 90 rape cases nationwide. The Supreme Court has expressed strong concern over the handling of the case and urged measures to ensure healthcare workers’ safety.
The Supreme Court has directed the newly formed National Task Force to submit interim guidelines for medical professionals’ safety within three weeks. Dr. Saumitra Rawat, a key NTF member, will lead efforts to address violence and improve working conditions for healthcare workers.
The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has welcomed the Supreme Court’s decision to establish a 10-member Task Force to address violence against medical professionals. The IMA will continue to push for a Central Law to protect medical professionals. The Supreme Court also directed the CBI to provide updates on the investigation into the recent rape and murder of a junior doctor in Kolkata.
