Union Minister Deplores Bengal Govt's Handling of Doctor Murder Case

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan criticised the West Bengal government for its alleged insensitivity towards the reported rape and murder of a doctor at a Kolkata hospital. He stated that the incident has instilled fear among children nationwide. Pradhan made these remarks while attending an event at IIT Kharagpur.

Supreme Court Directives

Pradhan emphasised that both state and central governments must follow the Supreme Court's directives on this matter. He accused the state government of displaying a "don't care" attitude and attempting to conceal evidence. "The Supreme Court has raised basic questions advocating strong steps about this incident in Bengal," he said, expressing shock at the government's response.

Allegations Against Civic Volunteer

Referring to Sanjay Roy, a civic volunteer arrested in connection with the case, Pradhan noted that Roy continued his service despite reports of past misdeeds. He highlighted that no proper procedures or protocols were followed for deploying women in state-run hospitals. This negligence, he said, has led to widespread protests across the state.

Union Minister of State for Education Sukanta Majumdar criticised recent recommendations by the administration advising against deploying women in night duties. He called these suggestions discriminatory and lacking gender sensitivity. "You cannot ensure a safe environment for women by asking them to stay indoors," Majumdar stated.

Majumdar also announced that the BJP would protest against the handling of the incident at RG Kar Hospital for six days. He mentioned plans to visit the deceased doctor's parents once they have had time to recover from their loss. The doctor was reportedly raped and murdered on August 9 while on duty at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital.

Senior TMC minister Chandrima Bhattacharya declined to comment on Pradhan's accusations, citing the sub-judice nature of the issue. "We won't comment on what Pradhan has said. It is a sub-judice issue," she remarked.

Pradhan and Majumdar also met with directors and vice-chancellors of eight central higher education institutions, including IIM, IISER, and Visva Bharati, to discuss academic excellence and other issues. The meeting took place at IIT Kharagpur Research Park, where IIT Kharagpur Director V K Tewari noted that Pradhan expressed satisfaction with the facilities after touring them.

The incident has sparked significant public outcry and raised questions about women's safety in workplaces, particularly in healthcare settings. The ongoing protests reflect civil society's demand for accountability and justice in this tragic case.