Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, August 31, 2024, Kolkata : The investigation into the RG Kar Hospital case, involving the tragic death of a female doctor, has ignited a fresh wave of debate as new, potentially explosive information emerges. The case, which has already attracted significant judicial scrutiny, is now facing intense scrutiny over the handling of the FIR and the procedural actions of the police.
Delayed FIR Sparks Legal and Public Outcry
The Calcutta High Court and the Supreme Court have both previously expressed concerns over the delayed registration of the FIR. The incident in question unfolded on August 9, when the police arrived at RG Kar Hospital by 10 a.m. to investigate the death of the female doctor. Despite their prompt arrival, the FIR was not lodged until 11:45 p.m. on the same day—well after the body had been recovered and examined.
The FIR, filed at Tala police station under FIR No. 52, accuses an unidentified individual of intentional rape and murder. This delay in FIR registration has become a focal point of contention, with critics questioning the effectiveness and transparency of the investigative process.
FIR Content and Discrepancies
The FIR was initially recorded based on General Diary No. 577, with the formal complaint being filed around 12:15 p.m. on August 9. The FIR references Unnatural Death Case No. 861, citing Sections 64 (rape) and 103 (1) (murder) of the Indian Penal Code. However, the post-mortem report, which is crucial to establishing the cause of death and the nature of any assault, did not directly confirm rape. This discrepancy has led to widespread questioning of the police’s decision to include allegations of rape and murder in the FIR without concrete forensic evidence.
Family’s Outcry and Demands for Justice
The victim’s family has publicly expressed their frustration and dismay over the handling of the case. They have alleged that their daughter was subjected to severe torture and ultimately murdered, and are demanding exemplary punishment for those responsible. Their concern is compounded by the apparent mismatch between the FIR’s allegations and the post-mortem findings, which they argue undermines the integrity of the investigation.
Criticism from the Medical Community
An agitating doctor involved in the case has voiced strong criticism of the police’s actions, particularly the decision to file an FIR based on assumptions of criminal activity rather than on substantiated evidence. The lack of direct evidence of rape has further fueled skepticism about the thoroughness and objectivity of the investigation.
Ongoing Controversy and Investigation
As the investigation continues, the controversy surrounding the FIR timing and content remains unresolved. The case has raised critical concerns about procedural integrity and the administration of justice, highlighting the need for transparency and accountability in high-profile investigations. The legal and public discourse surrounding the Arjikar case underscores the broader issues of procedural justice and the need for rigorous investigative standards.