The autopsy of the post-graduate trainee doctor found deceased at a state-run hospital in Kolkata has confirmed that she was murdered following a sexual assault. The initial findings ruled out suicide, prompting the filing of a case at Tala Police Station.
“This is not a case of suicide; the woman was murdered following sexual assault,” reportedly said a police officer.
The 28-year-old victim, a second-year student in the respiratory medicine department at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, was found partially clothed inside the seminar hall of the hospital’s emergency building. Her body, bearing multiple injuries, was discovered in the early hours of Friday.
A doctor from the hospital, who wished to remain anonymous, mentioned that the victim had dinner with her juniors around 2 am before heading to the seminar room due to the absence of a separate on-call room for rest. Her body was discovered there in the morning.
The police have questioned five individuals who were on duty with her the night before.
The four-page autopsy report revealed disturbing details, including bleeding from the victim’s genital area and multiple injuries across her body.
“There was bleeding from eyes and mouth, injuries over the face and nails. The victim was also bleeding from her private parts. She had injuries on her belly, left leg, neck, right hand, ring finger, and lips,” the report detailed.
A senior police official stated that the crime likely occurred between 3 and 6 am. “Her neck bone was found broken, suggesting she was first strangulated and then smothered to death,” the official added, noting that the full autopsy report would be crucial in identifying the culprits.
The Kolkata Police have formed a Special Investigation Team to probe the crime, comprising members from the homicide department and other specialised units.
Leader of the Opposition and BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari has demanded a CBI investigation into the death and urged student groups to protest against the State Government’s response.
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee assured the victim’s parents that appropriate action would be taken against those responsible. Trinamool Congress leader Santanu Sen asserted on the need for a fair and transparent investigation and reiterated the administration’s commitment to the safety and security of women.
In the aftermath of the incident, postgraduate trainee doctors at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital have halted work in all departments except the emergency ward, demanding the immediate arrest of those responsible.
