In a rebuke of the Kolkata police, the Supreme Court on Tuesday directed the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) to take over the security of RG Kar Medical College and Hospital amid the ongoing investigation into the rape-murder case of a 31-year-old trainee doctor.
“We propose that the CISF handle security at the hospital,” Chief Justice DY Chandrachud said. This order follows a violent incident on the night of August 15 when a mob systematically attacked doctors, medical staff, and emergency personnel at the facility. The CJI stressed the urgency of ensuring the safety of medical professionals at the hospital, noting that over 700 doctors were on site at the time of the attack. He highlighted that most of these doctors have since left due to safety concerns.
‘The night of August 15’
“On the night of August 15, 2024, during the acts of vandalism, a mob systematically attacked the male and female doctors, medical staff, and emergency personnel. …The Court has been apprised of the fact that there are over 700 doctors at RG Kar Medical College Hospital. Most of these doctors have left. It is essential to create safe conditions for these doctors,” the Supreme Court said. “The CISF and CRPF will provide security to the residents and staff there.”
The court’s decision comes amid ongoing protests and calls for increased protection for healthcare workers. On Tuesday, the Supreme Court constituted a 10-member task force to formulate a national protocol to ensure safety and facilities for doctors in the wake of the rape and murder of a medic in Kolkata. The task force will submit its interim report within three weeks and the final report within two months.
During the hearing, the court also criticised the West Bengal government for its delay in filing an FIR in the rape-murder case and questioned the actions of the hospital authorities. Tuesday marked the ninth day of the strike by doctors, who in the wake of the Kolkata murder have been demanding a central law on the safety of medics working at hospitals. The striking doctors are demanding a fast and transparent investigation by the CBI into the murder and the formation of a Central Protection Act.
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