“If needed, the accused will be hanged…”: Mamata Banerjee Calls for “Strictest Punishment” in Brutal Rape and Murder of Kolkata RG Kar Doctor

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Saturday expressed deep sorrow over the brutal rape and murder of a second-year PGT doctor of Kolkata's RG Kar Hospital. She called for the "strictest punishment" for those responsible for this "unfortunate and despicable" crime. The incident has sparked widespread outrage, with medical students taking to the streets demanding justice for their deceased peers.

“The incident is unfortunate and despicable. It feels like a personal loss to me. The doctors’ anger and demand is justified. I support it. Police have also accepted their demands…If needed, the accused will be hanged, even though I am not pro-capital punishment. But they should be given the strictest punishment,” said the Trinamool Congress Supremo.

Mamata Banerjee noted that while she was in Jharkhand yesterday, she personally monitored the situation. She spoke with the victim’s family and assured them that justice would be served and proper action would be taken. Banerjee has directed that the case be fast-tracked through a special court. She also emphasized that while doctors have the right to protest, they must continue to treat their patients.

“For those who are protesting, if they feel they don’t have faith in the State Administration, they can approach any other law enforcement agency. I have no issue with that. We want a proper and thorough investigation and stringent punishment for the culprits,” said Banerjee over the ongoing protests. She added that she has “nothing to hide” and emphasized her commitment to justice, saying, “I am clearly saying that an exemplary punishment has to be made.”

Banerjee noted that the Commissioner of Police (CP) was at the hospital and in contact with her until 2 p.m. on the day of the incident. She also announced that a probe would be conducted to investigate any potential negligence by the hospital’s superintendent. “I was with the doctors previously and I will always be with them. If needed, I will send the Principal Secretary and the CP again,” she said.

The Kolkata Police on Saturday arrested a suspect in connection with the rape and murder of a female postgraduate trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The police have also added charges of rape and murder to the case. Identified as Sanjay Roy, the accused has been sent to 14 14-day police remand.