Indian Medical Association Suspends Sandip Ghosh: Ex-Principal Of Kolkata's RG Medical College

The Indian Medical Association has suspended Dr Sandip Ghosh, the former Principal of Kolkata's RG Kar Hospital. This action follows accusations of negligence in a case where a doctor was raped and murdered this month. Dr Ghosh underwent a lie-detector test on Monday but does not face charges related to the murder.

Dr Ghosh is accused of failing to file a police complaint when the woman's body was discovered. He faces non-bailable corruption charges instead. Allegations have surfaced that corruption at RG Kar Hospital, including trafficking in dead bodies and biomedical waste, might be linked to the murder.

Corruption Allegations and Evidence

A former employee has accused Dr Ghosh of involvement in illegal activities at the hospital. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) conducted an exhaustive 11-hour search at his Kolkata home. They claimed to have seized significant evidence and questioned him for nearly 90 hours so far.

The IMA issued a statement saying, "(parents of the doctor) ... put up their grievances against you in dealing with the situation as well as lack of empathy and sensitivity in handling the issue..." The association also cited complaints from doctors in Bengal, accusing Dr Ghosh of bringing disrepute to the profession.

Protests and Court Intervention

After the doctor's body was found, Dr Ghosh resigned, citing moral responsibility. However, within hours, he was appointed to lead Calcutta National Medical College and Hospital (CNMC). This appointment led to fierce protests from CNMC staff and those protesting the doctor's murder.

The Calcutta High Court intervened, demanding that Dr Ghosh go on "long leave." The court also questioned his appointment, leading critics of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and protesters to claim that the state government was protecting him.

Dr Ghosh has been at the centre of controversy since these events unfolded. The IMA's disciplinary committee decided to suspend him due to these allegations and ongoing investigations. The suspension reflects concerns about his handling of the situation and its impact on the medical profession's reputation.