New Delhi: On August 9, 2024, a second-year postgraduate trainee (PGT) doctor at RG Kar Medical College in Kolkata, West Bengal, India, was found dead in a seminar hall on the college campus. Dr. Moumita Debnath’s life was brutally cut short, and an autopsy later confirmed that she had been raped and murdered. The incident has sent shockwaves through the medical community and sparked nationwide protests.
Horrific Details Emerge
The initial autopsy report revealed chilling details about the extent of violence inflicted upon Dr. Debnath. She was found in a semi-nude state, with bleeding from her eyes, mouth, and genitals. The injuries included deep wounds in her genital tract, lips, left leg, right hand, ring finger, neck, and face. Scratch marks on her face were likely caused by the accused’s fingernails. The cause of the injuries to her eyes remains undetermined.
Furthermore, around 150 mg of semen was found in the vaginal swab, leading doctors and the victim’s parents to suspect a possible gang rape. However, Kolkata Police rejected this claim, stating that distinguishing semen from multiple individuals during an autopsy is impossible with the naked eye.
Arrest and Investigation
Following an intensive investigation, the police arrested Sanjay Roy, a suspect whose Bluetooth headset was found at the crime scene. Roy, a civic volunteer with the Kolkata Police Disaster Management force, confessed to the crime. His mobile phone contained explicit content, suggesting an addiction to pornography. The murder occurred between 3 am and 5 am on that fateful day.
Nationwide Protests and Medical Shutdown
In response to the heinous crime, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) announced a nationwide shutdown of services by allopathy doctors for 24 hours, starting from 6 am on Saturday, August 17, until 6 am on Sunday, August 18. The IMA emphasized the vulnerability of doctors, especially women, and called for authorities to ensure their safety within hospital premises. Meanwhile, FORDA (Federation of Resident Doctors Association) also declared a strike.
The case of Dr. Moumita Debnath has ignited a fierce debate about doctor safety and accountability. As the investigation continues, the nation stands united in demanding justice for the young doctor who lost her life while serving others.
