Kolkata Doctor Murder: 9 Arrested as Mob Vandalizes Hospital

Kolkata, Aug 15, 2024: Following the tragic rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, Kolkata, the situation escalated when a mob stormed the hospital premises, causing significant damage. Nine individuals have been arrested in connection with the violence, while authorities assure that the crime scene remains undisturbed.

Hospital Turns into War Zone

The incident occurred late on Wednesday night when nearly 40-50 people, disguised as protesters, forcibly entered the hospital. The mob vandalized medical equipment, furniture, and even the emergency ward, leaving the state-run institution in shambles. Nurses and medical staff were left in a state of shock as the once orderly hospital resembled a battlefield.

Protests Lead to Violence

The mob’s actions are believed to have stemmed from anger over the brutal rape and murder of the trainee doctor. Women from the ‘Reclaim the Night’ campaign gathered outside the hospital to protest the heinous crime. However, the situation quickly spiraled out of control as the mob targeted hospital property under the pretext of seeking justice.

Police Response

Kolkata Police were forced to use tear gas and lathicharge to disperse the unruly crowd. Despite the chaos, police have assured that the crime scene of the doctor’s murder remains intact. “The crime scene has not been touched,” Kolkata Police clarified, dismissing rumors that the violence had compromised the investigation.

Arrests and Investigations

In a swift response, Kolkata Police arrested nine individuals connected to the violence. The police are currently examining CCTV footage to identify other participants involved in the mob attack. Meanwhile, a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) team visited the victim’s residence and is expected to inspect the hospital premises to ensure that the sealed crime scene remains unaffected.

Nurses Speak Out

Nurses at RG Kar Hospital protested on Thursday morning, condemning the vandalism and expressing fear for their safety. One nurse recounted how the mob attempted to break into the seminar room where the crime occurred, adding that two police officers sought refuge with the nurses during the chaos.

Political Fallout

The incident has ignited a political controversy, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) demanding the resignation of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, citing the government’s failure to maintain law and order. In contrast, Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Abhishek Banerjee condemned the vandalism and urged the police to identify and punish the culprits within 24 hours.

Continued Tensions

The situation at RG Kar Hospital remains tense as investigations continue. The police have been criticized for their handling of the situation, with allegations that media sensationalism contributed to the mob’s actions. As the investigation unfolds, the focus remains on ensuring justice for the victim while maintaining order within the hospital and surrounding areas.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

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