Supreme Court Flags Missing Autopsy Document in Kolkata Rape

The recent Supreme Court hearing regarding the tragic rape and murder of a junior doctor at the R.G. Kar Medical College in Kolkata has drawn significant attention due to serious procedural lapses and the absence of crucial documentation. This incident, which occurred on August 9, 2024, has not only shocked the local community but has also sparked nationwide protests, highlighting the urgent need for improved safety measures for healthcare professionals.

Key Developments in the Case

On September 9, 2024, the Supreme Court expressed grave concern over the missing “challan,” a critical document necessary for conducting the postmortem examination of the victim. Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud emphasized the importance of this document, which details the clothes and articles sent along with the body for autopsy. The absence of this document raises questions about the integrity of the investigation and the procedures followed by the Kolkata Police and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) involved in the case.The court has mandated that the West Bengal government and the CBI provide a status report on the investigation by September 17, 2024. The Solicitor General, Tushar Mehta, informed the court that the challan was not included in the records provided to the CBI, while Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, representing the West Bengal government, admitted he could not locate the document immediately. This lack of documentation is particularly troubling, as it suggests potential mishandling of evidence and could compromise the investigation’s integrity.

Delays and Procedural Irregularities

In addition to the missing challan, the Supreme Court highlighted a significant delay of approximately 14 hours in the registration of the First Information Report (FIR) following the incident. This delay has raised concerns about the responsiveness of the Kolkata Police and their commitment to investigating serious crimes. The court has directed the CBI to investigate these procedural irregularities and report back on their findings.The court also ordered the immediate removal of the victim’s photographs from social media platforms to protect her dignity and privacy, reflecting a growing concern over the sensationalism surrounding such tragic incidents.

Call for Action and Safety Measures

Amid ongoing protests by resident doctors demanding justice and better safety measures, the Supreme Court has urged them to return to work, assuring that no punitive action would be taken against them for their participation in the protests. The court’s directive came after the West Bengal government assured it that no adverse actions, including transfers, would be taken against the protesting medical staff.The Supreme Court has also called for a comprehensive review of security measures at medical institutions across West Bengal, instructing district magistrates and superintendents of police to ensure the safety of government medical colleges. This move is part of a broader initiative to enhance the safety and security of healthcare professionals, who are increasingly becoming targets of violence in various regions.

Conclusion

The Supreme Court’s involvement in the Kolkata rape and murder case underscores the critical importance of procedural integrity in criminal investigations. The missing autopsy document and the delays in filing the FIR highlight systemic issues that need urgent attention. As the CBI continues its investigation, the court’s directives aim to restore public confidence in the legal system and ensure the safety of healthcare professionals. The outcome of this case will likely have far-reaching implications for how such incidents are handled in the future, both legally and socially.