The parents of R.G. Kar Medical College doctor, who was tragically raped and murdered on the hospital campus on August 9, 2024, recently voiced their frustrations and demands for justice, leading to stark accusations against the West Bengal state government. Their heartfelt plea came after a meeting with CBI (Central Bureau of Investigation) Director Praveen Sood on February 28, 2025, where they sought to understand the progression of the case, nearly seven months after their daughter’s harrowing fate.
During this meeting, the father expressed his disappointment, stating, "We met CBI Director Praveen Sood and discussed the verdict... We have not even received my daughter’s death certificate yet, so we urged the CBI director to help us obtain it." This plea highlighted the procedural delays they have faced as they continue to fight for answers surrounding their daughter’s death, which remains clouded by accusations of neglect and inadequate response from local authorities.
The emotional turmoil experienced by the family has prompted them to publicly lash out at Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for what they perceive as her government’s failure to handle the case appropriately. The parents argue against Banerjee's claim of the CBI mishandling the situation, insisting instead, "Mamata Banerjee is misleading the people and voters. She never questioned why her own police failed to act swiftly. Instead, she always blames the CBI and other agencies."
The victim, only 31 years old and pursuing her postgraduate studies, was discovered lifeless, bearing multiple lacerations, which shocked not only her family but also the entire nation. The case has raised serious concerns over safety for medical staff, particularly female doctors, and triggered widespread calls for more stringent protective measures.
Following the incident, Chief Minister Banerjee has attempted to show concern over women’s safety during her public speeches. On February 24, she addressed medical professionals, urging them to look out for one another, especially men protecting their female counterparts. Speaking at the 'Chikitsar Arek Naam Seva' program, she said, "I have walked on the streets after this incident... We want proper punishment for the culprits. So, such incidents are not repeated..." This stance, alongside the announcement of salary increases for state government doctors, was her attempt to simultaneously acknowledge the needs of medical personnel and to address the safety crisis.
While the announcements may alleviate financial stress for some medical workers—the Chief Minister declared increases of Rs 15,000 for senior resident doctors—many still feel these gestures fall short of addressing the systemic issues raised by this tragic incident. The parents remain unconvinced, emphasizing how taxpayer money seems misappropriated instead of ensuring safety and justice. "Seven months have passed by. There is no sign of justice till now... We have come here to meet the CBI director... We want people to know how the taxpayers' money is being misused..." the father lamented.
This entire episode exposes the deep cracks within the state’s governance concerning women’s safety and justice delivery. Following the murder, police failures were evident, as the investigation took significant time to commence and was marred by accusations of negligence. The father asserted, "Mamata Banerjee’s police did nothing for four days after my daughter's death. She instructed all stakeholders to stay silent and even arranged for my daughter's body to be cremated at 2:00 AM the same night." Such claims insinuate an attempt at suppression, complicity, or indifference on behalf of those charged with upholding public safety.
The overarching sentiment of the grieving family reflects broader societal frustrations with women's safety, justice, and accountability from public officials. Their call for justice resonates not just for their daughter but symbolizes the many who feel the same injustices. The incident continues to reverberate through the corridors of medical institutions and society at large, compelling stakeholders to advocate for tangible change.
The horrifying circumstances surrounding this case insist on urgent and decisive action to confront gender-based violence and the need for transparency within governmental procedures. It poses fundamental questions about how the system can prevent future tragedies and restore public trust. Until justice is served, the parents of the victim will remain steadfast, holding both the CBI and the state government accountable for their daughter’s tragic fate.