The suspension period of three IPS officers linked to the rape and murder of a woman doctor at R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata has been prolonged by 120 days. The officers, including the-then Commissioner of Kolkata Police, Vineet Kumar Goyal, faced accusations of neglecting their duties in the case. West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari had initially suspended them on May 15 and ordered a departmental probe.
The extension of the suspension aims to ensure an unbiased investigation into the officers’ conduct. A new Special Investigation Team (SIT) set up by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is looking into the doctor’s tragic case. Recently, members of the SIT questioned Deputy Commissioners Abhishek Gupta and Indira Mukherjee regarding the incident.
Following the discovery of the doctor’s body on the hospital premises in August 2024, widespread protests erupted in West Bengal and beyond. The public outcry led to demands for the resignation of Goyal and Gupta due to alleged mishandling of the investigation. Mukherjee, accused of providing misleading information during media interactions, faced scrutiny but was retained in her position by Mamata Banerjee amidst mounting pressure.
In a significant move, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari reopened the RG Kar files, extended the suspension of the IPS officers, and initiated a departmental inquiry on May 15. The case continues to draw attention both locally and internationally, reflecting the gravity of the situation.
