"Feeling helpless...": RG Kar Family Writes to Amit Shah Seeking an Appointment

The father of the 31-year-old PGT doctor, who was brutally raped and murdered at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital on August 9, has written an email to Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday, seeking an appointment with him and his intervention for justice for his daughter. This comes a day after the protesting junior doctors called off their 17-day hunger strike by junior doctors after a meeting with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. In his email, the father expressed feelings of helplessness in the wake of the tragedy, highlighting the emotional toll on him and his wife.

“I am the father of Avaya and I am writing to respectfully request an appointment with you at your convenience or at any other location as you may suggest. After that heinous unforeseen incident happened to our daughter, we have been going through tremendous mental pressure and feeling helpless now. Sir, I along with my wife want to meet with you to discuss few things regarding the situation and pray for your guidance and help,” wrote the father of the fallen doctor.

He further stated that he would like to gain the insights of the Union Home Minister on the issue. “I would be truly grateful for the opportunity to speak with you and gain your insights on the issue, as I believe your experience and guidance would be invaluable. Please let me know when and where you can spare few minutes for us…I appreciate your time and consideration of this request and look forward to your favorable response,” added Abhaya’s father.

Protests erupted across Bengal following the brutal rape and murder of a 31-year-old PGT doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. Demonstrators filled the streets, demanding justice for the victim, referred to as ‘Abhaya,’ and advocating for safer working conditions for healthcare professionals.

Junior doctors initially ceased work in protest, but after a meeting with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, they returned. However, feeling unsafe, they resumed their agitation, later calling that off and eventually launched a hunger strike on October 5. This strike lasted 17 days and concluded on Monday after discussions with the Chief Minister.

The case has been transferred to the CBI following a Calcutta High Court hearing. In its first chargesheet, the central agency named Sanjay Roy as the prime accused, with the trial set to begin in court on November 4.A​