Calcutta HC Raps Bengal Govt Over RG Kar Hospital Vandalism: 'Sorry State Of Affairs'

The Calcutta High Court took up a case on Friday concerning the vandalism and mob attacks at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, which occurred on the eve of Independence Day during the nationwide 'Reclaim the Night' protest.

The Chief Justice harshly criticised the West Bengal government for what was described as an "absolute failure of state machinery."

Expressing deep concern, the High Court referred to the incident as a "sorry state of affairs" and questioned how doctors could work fearlessly when the police themselves were unable to ensure their own protection.

The court even considered shutting down the hospital and transferring patients to other facilities due to the gravity of the situation.

The matter was listed by the court after receiving multiple emails related to the vandalism and mob attack. Reprimanding the state for its inadequate response, the Chief Justice pointed out, "You pass Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) for any reason. When so much commotion was going on, you should have cordoned off the area," further adding that "7,000 people can't come walking."

The court highlighted the detrimental impact such incidents have on the morale and confidence of doctors and medical staff, underscoring the state's responsibility to create a safe environment for healthcare professionals to perform their duties without fear of violence. The Chief Justice called for immediate and effective measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

The court has scheduled the next hearing for Wednesday.

Meanwhile, the Kolkata Police have arrested 19 individuals involved in the vandalism. The police reported that a group of 40 to 50 people, under the guise of demonstrations, broke into the hospital premises late Wednesday night and caused significant damage to property.

Also, the investigation into the murder and rape of a trainee doctor has been transferred from the Kolkata Police to CBI, following orders from the Calcutta High Court.