RG Kar Medical College Principal Resigns amidst Protests over Rape and Murder of PGT Doctor

Prof. (Dr.) Sandip Ghosh, the principal of Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata, resigned from his position on Monday in the wake of intense protests and backlash surrounding the brutal rape and murder of a female PGT doctor on the college campus.

Dr. Ghosh cited the "humiliation" he faced on social media as a key reason for his resignation. “I cannot take the humiliation on social media. Political statements are being made in my name,” said the principal adding that the victim was like a daughter to him. Prof. (Dr.) Sandip Ghosh asserted that his resignation was driven by his role as a parent, reflecting his emotional response to the tragedy.

Amidst allegations of victim-blaming, Dr. Ghosh has denied any such remarks. “Students are being provoked to ensure my removal,” he claimed. “I want the accused to be punished. I am being defamed. I have not made such remarks… The girl who died was like my daughter. I am also a parent. As a parent, I am resigning,” he added.

In his resignation announcement, Dr. Ghosh also defended his tenure, highlighting his commitment to tackling corruption and improving hospital conditions. “I am an orthopaedic surgeon and can earn my livelihood elsewhere,” he said. “Everyone thought Sandip Ghosh cannot resign. I am honest. After I took over, I cracked down on corruption and worked for the development of the hospital and in the interest of the patients,” he said.

Political figures have also weighed in on the situation. BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari criticized Dr. Ghosh’s handling of the aftermath, calling for his suspension. “His misleading statements and carefree attitude in the aftermath of this tragic incident expose his indifference towards the victim,” Adhikari posted on X. He further suggested, “There is a fair chance that people close to him may have been involved, and the Police are working hastily to wrap up the investigation so that they don't get caught. His influence in the power circle is considerable.”

The Kolkata police on Saturday arrested Sanjay Roy, the main accused in the rape and murder of a PGT trainee doctor. He was working for the civic volunteer welfare organisation, entrusted with the job to facilitate the admission and medical attention of any Kolkata police officer or civic volunteer, on occasions of being rushed to RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, in case of any emergency. Police reports indicate that Roy went home and changed his clothes after the alleged attack, but blood was later found on his shoe. In addition, the police have summoned three junior doctors and one housekeeping staff member who were present on the night of the murder.

The victim, a post-graduate student of medicine, was found dead in a semi-nude position in seminar hall at the hospital, having gone there to rest after a meal with colleagues. The initial post-mortem report indicated severe injuries, including bleeding from various parts of her body and a broken neck. The tragic event has led to widespread protests and disruptions in hospital services across West Bengal, with junior doctors, interns, and postgraduate trainees continuing their strike for the fourth day. They are demanding a magisterial inquiry into the doctor’s death.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said that the incident “feels like a personal loss” to her, and has vowed to ensure that justice is served. “The incident is unfortunate and despicable. It feels like a personal loss to me. Their [doctors] anger and demand is justified. I support it. Police have also accepted their demands… I have directed for the case to be taken to a fast-track court. If needed, the accused will be hanged, even though I am not pro-capital punishment. But they should be given the strictest punishment,” said Banerjee. Mamata Banerjee also spoke to the family of the victim and assured them of proper action in this case.