Court Directs CBI-Led SIT to Investigate Alleged Cover-Up and Evidence Destruction
The Calcutta High Court has ordered the formation of a three-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to probe alleged attempts to suppress facts, destroy evidence, and mishandle the investigation in the RG Kar Medical College rape-murder case.
The court directed that the SIT be headed by the CBI’s Joint Director, Eastern Zone, while the remaining two members are to be finalized within 48 hours. The bench also instructed the SIT to submit a detailed report before the court by June 25.
Probe to Cover Events From Victim’s Last Dinner Till Cremation
A division bench comprising Justices Shampa Sarkar and Tirthankar Ghosh stated that the new SIT must investigate the sequence of events beginning from the trainee doctor’s dinner on the night of August 9, 2024, until her cremation the following day.
The court observed that allegations regarding destruction of evidence, procedural lapses, and attempts to “hush up” the matter required a deeper and more comprehensive investigation considering the seriousness and public impact of the case.
Background of the RG Kar Case
The case relates to the rape and murder of a postgraduate trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in August 2024. The incident had triggered nationwide outrage, protests by doctors, and widespread public demonstrations demanding justice and stronger workplace safety measures for women.
The investigation was earlier transferred from Kolkata Police to the CBI by the Calcutta High Court after concerns were raised over the initial handling of the case. Civic volunteer Sanjay Roy was later convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment in connection with the crime.
Parents Sought Wider Investigation
The victim’s parents approached the High Court seeking a wider investigation, alleging that more than one person may have been involved and that there were deliberate attempts to suppress crucial evidence in the initial stages of the probe.
The bench noted that the new SIT would not only investigate allegations related to destruction of evidence but would also revisit grievances raised by the family regarding possible shielding of offenders and institutional lapses.
Court Questions Progress of Earlier Probe
During the hearing, the High Court reportedly questioned the pace and scope of the CBI investigation conducted over the past several months. The agency informed the court that statements from nearly 70 to 80 individuals had been recorded as part of the ongoing probe.
The court also directed the CBI to produce all relevant materials, including documents, photographs, videos, and case diary records related to the investigation.
Alleged Lapses Under Scrutiny
The SIT has been asked to examine alleged lapses by police officials and hospital authorities during the early stages of the investigation before the case was transferred to the CBI.
The controversy surrounding the case has already led to disciplinary action against several officials. Reports earlier indicated suspension of senior police officers over alleged shortcomings in the probe.
Case Continues to Draw Public Attention
The RG Kar case remains one of the most sensitive and high-profile criminal investigations in West Bengal. The incident sparked debates across the country over women’s safety, security in medical institutions, accountability of authorities, and transparency in investigations.
Legal experts believe the High Court’s decision to constitute a fresh SIT reflects judicial concern over unanswered questions and public distrust surrounding the earlier stages of the investigation.
Conclusion
The Calcutta High Court’s order for a three-member CBI-led SIT marks a major development in the RG Kar Medical College case. With allegations of evidence destruction, institutional lapses, and attempts to suppress facts under renewed scrutiny, the investigation is expected to re-examine critical developments surrounding the incident in greater detail.
