A court in the eastern state of West Bengal initiated the trial on Monday for a police volunteer accused of raping and murdering a doctor at a government hospital in August. This case has ignited widespread outrage over the lack of safety for women in India.
The woman's body was discovered in a classroom at the R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata on August 9, according to federal police. They also arrested a police volunteer, Sanjay Roy, in connection with the crime. Charges were filed last week, while Roy claimed he was 'completely innocent' and was being framed, as reported by local media.
This legal case has rekindled criticism of India's poor record on women's safety, despite the introduction of stricter laws following the 2012 gang rape and murder of a woman on a moving bus in New Delhi. It also highlights the inadequate infrastructure and security at many government hospitals in India, which often lack basic facilities such as CCTV cameras and security personnel.
Approximately 128 witnesses will be examined during the trial, with daily hearings scheduled as authorities aim to expedite the high-profile case. These hearings will not be open to the public. One source, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that the father of the woman doctor, the alleged victim, provided testimony on Monday.
In addition to Roy, India's federal police arrested the officer in charge of the local police station and the superintendent of the hospital for allegedly tampering with evidence and financial irregularities. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee met with protesters last month and accepted most of their demands, according to doctors seeking reforms. However, they stated they would monitor the progress on her assurances and continue to press for change.
Source link: https://www.khaleejtimes.com
