NEW DELHI: Amid nation wide outrage and strike by medical fraternity on August 17, a letter petition has been filed with the Chief Justice of India, urging the Supreme Court to take suo motu cognisance of Kolkata's horrific incident of gang rape and murder of Post Graduate trainee doctor on August 9.
It asked the court to ensure fair and impartial investigation into subsequent attack on R G Kar Medical College itself by the goons on August 14.
The letter sought an order for the deployment of Central Forces to protect R G Kar Medical College and its staff until the pendency of the case, contending this measure is crucial given the failure of local law enforcement to prevent the attack and subsequent vandalism of the crime scene.
Dr Monica Singh, a BDS, of Army College of Dental Sciences, Secunderabad sent a letter to CJI D Y Chandrachud, throwing light on a series of alarming incidents of brutal attacks on medical professionals, particularly the recent events at the college in Kolkata, in which a PG trainee doctor was found raped and murdered.
"The recent incidents involving the brutal attacks on medical professionals are not just a personal tragedy but a horrifying reminder of the severe risks faced by those who work tirelessly to save lives. This deepens the concern for the safety of individuals in such critical professions," it said.
It stated the doctors in India dedicate 10 to 11 years of rigorous education and training, including medical school and residency, to save lives and serve society. Their commitment involved years of sleepless nights, intense study, and hands-on experience.
The letter petition, sent through her advocate Satyam Singh, stated, "The attacks have severely disrupted hospital operations and created an atmosphere of fear among medical staff. There must be immediate deployment of Central Forces to protect the college and its staff."
The incident at Kolkata has severely impacted the morale of the medical community, raising concerns about their safety across the country, it said.
Singh sought a thorough and impartial investigation into the attacks, as well as comprehensive security measures for medical institutions across the country.
The petitioner contended that these incidents violated the very basic fundamental rights guaranteed by the Indian Constitution, including the right to life, personal liberty, and the right to practice one's profession.
The petition asked the court to issue guidelines for enhancing the security measures at medical institutions.
"The attack on R G Kar Medical College is not merely an isolated incident of violence, but a direct assault on the healthcare system of our nation. It undermines the safety and security of those who have dedicated their lives to serving others. Swift and decisive action from the Supreme Court is essential to restore faith in the rule of law and to ensure the uninterrupted functioning of our medical institutions," it said.
On August 9, the PG trainee doctor was allegedly raped and murdered on duty, triggering nationwide protests by civil society and doctors.
On August 14, unidentified miscreants reportedly entered the premises of state-run RG Kar Medical College and Hospital here shortly after midnight on Thursday and vandalised portions of the medical facility, where the body of a woman doctor was found last week.
The incident took place amid midnight protests by women against the horrific rape-murder of the doctor at the hospital.
According to the police, a group of nearly 40 people, allegedly disguised as protestors, entered the hospital premises, vandalised property and pelted stones at police personnel prompting them to fire teargas to disperse the mob. A police vehicle and a few two-wheelers at the spot were also damaged in the incident. The assailants not only caused significant damage to the institution's property but also threatened the safety of students, faculty, and patients.
"Most alarmingly, following the initial attack, the crime scene was vandalized, potentially destroying crucial evidence. Staff members continue to report threats and intimidation, creating an atmosphere of fear and insecurity within the medical community," it said.
