"Corruption in high places seriously impacts public confidence": Calcutta HC on ex-RG Kar principal’s plea

The Calcutta High Court has directed an expedited trial in the financial irregularities case against former RG Kar Medical College principal Sandip Ghosh. A division bench comprising Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Gaurang Kanth emphasized that corruption in high offices impacts public confidence and that the trial must proceed without unnecessary delays. The court also noted that accused individuals are entitled to a fair and prompt trial.

Sandip Ghosh, along with four others, was arrested by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on charges of alleged financial misconduct at the institution. The case originated from a complaint by former medical superintendent Akhtar Ali, who accused Ghosh of corruption and mismanagement. The High Court had transferred the investigation from a state-appointed Special Investigation Team (SIT) to the CBI, which has since submitted its probe report. On Tuesday, the agency informed the court that scanned copies of the documents would be shared with the accused by February 12.

During the hearing, the court referenced a February 10 order from the trial judge, which recorded that Ghosh’s counsel had made accusations against the CBI. However, Ghosh’s legal team denied making false allegations and stated that several documents had not yet been provided. The High Court directed that the trial court set an early date for the next hearing, ensuring that proceedings move forward efficiently. "Corruption in high places has serious impact on public confidence in the affairs of the state," the court observed.

The CBI's case against Ghosh includes allegations of collusion with other hospital officials and contractors in financial irregularities related to various activities at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The accused remain in judicial custody as proceedings continue. The High Court noted that such cases have “far-reaching consequences” and stressed that delays must be avoided to uphold public trust in the justice system.

In addition to the corruption case, Sandip Ghosh was previously questioned regarding a broader conspiracy linked to the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College. While no direct charges have been filed against him in that case, authorities have continued to probe his possible involvement. The High Court has instructed the trial court to ensure that all relevant documents are made available and that hearings proceed without unnecessary postponements.