SC hearing: CBI findings disturbing, Jr doctors agree to return to work if WB govt ‘acts’ | Read Highlights

The Supreme Court on Tuesday expressed deep concern over revelations made by the CBI in its status report on the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital rape-murder case. A three-judge Bench, led by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, described the findings as "disturbing." The CBI is investigating the rape and murder of a postgraduate doctor at the Kolkata-based hospital.

In addition to reviewing the CBI's report, the court ordered Wikipedia to remove any content disclosing the identity of the victim, in line with privacy laws protecting victims of sexual violence. The Bench emphasized that revealing the victim’s identity is illegal and violates the dignity of the deceased.

The court also addressed West Bengal's reforms following the incident, criticizing a notification that suggested women doctors should avoid night shifts or working beyond 12 hours. The Chief Justice stressed that women doctors do not seek "concessions" but rather "equal opportunities," insisting that both male and female doctors should be subject to the same duty hours.

Another major issue raised by the court was security in medical colleges. The CJI expressed concerns over West Bengal’s reliance on contractual security personnel under the Rattirer Sathi scheme, noting that one such civil volunteer was implicated in the crime. The Bench advised the deployment of police personnel in at least 45 state hospitals to better protect doctors and medical staff, particularly young female students.

Junior doctors who have been on strike in protest of the incident indicated to the court their willingness to return to work, provided that the safety measures promised by the state government, during a meeting with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on September 16, are implemented.