Dr. Sandip Ghosh has resigned from his position as Principal of RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, effective August 12, amid intense scrutiny following the rape and murder of a female doctor on August 9.
The case has sparked nationwide outrage and led to significant backlash against Ghosh, who had previously served as the medical superintendent and vice-principal at Calcutta National Medical College (CNMC) and Hospital.
Following his resignation, Dr. Ghosh was slated to return to CNMC as Principal. However, this decision led to immediate unrest among the students at CNMC. On August 12, students protested, locking the Principal's office and preventing Ghosh from assuming his new role. Reports indicate that attempts by local politicians, including MLA Swarnakamal Saha and Javed Khan, to mediate with the students were unsuccessful, as the protesters continued to chant "Go back."
The Calcutta High Court further examined the controversy surrounding Ghosh's reappointment on August 13. During the proceedings, the Chief Justice questioned the rationale behind appointing Ghosh to another government position after his resignation and noted that, as an administrator, he should have faced more scrutiny. The court also challenged the state counsel on why Ghosh appeared to be receiving protection amidst the ongoing public outcry and legal proceedings related to the case.