RG Kar Rape-Murder Trial Expected to Conclude in a Month, CBI Informs Supreme Court

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) informed the Supreme Court today that the trial of the rape and murder case of a trainee doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College is likely to conclude within a month. The trial, which is being held in a Special CBI Court in Sealdah, has made significant progress, with 43 out of 81 prosecution witnesses already deposed.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the CBI, stated that the court is conducting hearings four days a week, and expressed satisfaction with the trial's pace. The court has been monitoring the progress closely, and there is hope for an expedited conclusion.

The tragic incident, which occurred on August 9, 2018, led to the transfer of the case from the Kolkata Police to the CBI, after concerns were raised about the handling of the investigation. The CBI’s chargesheet identified Sanjay Roy, a civic volunteer, as the prime accused in the crime.

In addition to the ongoing trial, the CBI also shared updates regarding a separate investigation into financial irregularities at RG Kar Medical College, which has led to a chargesheet. However, prosecution sanction for this aspect of the case is still pending from the state government.

Meanwhile, advocate Vrinda Grover, representing the victim's family, urged the court to include individuals allegedly involved in the cover-up of the crime in a supplementary chargesheet. The Supreme Court has also been reviewing the progress of a National Task Force (NTF) set up to propose measures for the safety of medical professionals, with a final report expected within 12 weeks.

The next hearing is scheduled for March 2025, although an earlier date could be set if the trial faces delays. The Supreme Court has also called on states to improve measures against gender-based violence and enhance safety protocols for healthcare workers.