West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari announces fresh probe into RG Kar doctor’s rape-murder case
Adhikari says the decision followed a request from Ratna Debnath, the victim’s mother and now a BJP MLA, who had sought a fresh investigation into the case
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Sunday announced a fresh probe into the 2024 rape and murder of a doctor at the state-run RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, saying the government is committed to ensuring justice for the victim.
Adhikari said the decision followed a request from Ratna Debnath, the victim’s mother and now a BJP MLA, who had sought a fresh investigation into the case.
After discussions with the chief secretary and a team of experts, the state government decided to initiate a fresh investigation under the Special Commission Act, 1952, the chief minister said.
Adhikari also ordered a separate investigation into the alleged irregularities in the cremation of the victim and directed the Barrackpore Police Commissioner to register an FIR.
Speaking at a memorial meeting for the victim in Panihati, Adhikari said the state police would independently investigate the allegations concerning the cremation, as the matter did not fall within the scope of the Central Bureau of Investigation’s ongoing probe.
“We have not forgotten ‘Abhaya’,” Adhikari said, adding that the government remained committed to securing justice for the victim, whom supporters have referred to as ‘Abhaya’.
“We have not forgotten ‘Abhaya’. The people of the state have given us the mandate to fight for her justice. Despite the limitations of administrative powers, I say again, I am committed. We will fight till the end for justice for our sister,” he said.
The chief minister also recalled the alleged police action against the victim’s mother during protests over the case the following year.
“I have not forgotten. I am doing whatever needs to be done and will continue to do so. I must see this through to the end,” he added. He also said the state government would adopt a strict approach towards crimes against women, irrespective of political or religious affiliations.
“We will not show favouritism or weakness, and we will keep personal relationships aside. We will take the strictest action possible in such cases,” he said.
