Kolkata Rape and Murder: Supreme Court Criticizes West Bengal Government Over Night Shift Policy for Female Doctors
The Supreme Court on Tuesday criticized the West Bengal government for its notification instructing state-run hospitals not to assign female doctors to night shifts, stating that women require security, not special treatment.
The notification was issued following the August 9 rape and murder of a doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital.
While hearing the case suo moto, Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud questioned the state’s decision through counsel Kapil Sibal, asking, “Why restrict women doctors from working at night? They do not want a concession; they are willing to work the same shifts.” He emphasized that the solution lies in enhancing security measures, not limiting work opportunities. The court directed the Bengal government to amend the notification accordingly.
CJI Chandrachud further noted, “It is the government’s duty to provide security. You cannot stop women from working night shifts, as women in professions such as pilots and army personnel work during these hours.”
During the hearing, the Supreme Court also asked Wikipedia to remove the victim’s name from its platform.
What Happened at the State-Run Hospital in Kolkata?
The victim, a female doctor, was discovered raped and murdered after she had gone to sleep in the hospital’s seminar room during a demanding 36-hour shift on August 9.
The police arrested a civic volunteer, Sanjay Roy, in connection with the crime. The case has since been transferred to the CBI.
The incident sparked protests from thousands of junior doctors demanding justice for the brutal crime. On Monday, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee reached an agreement with the protesting doctors, agreeing to their primary demand—the removal of the police commissioner, a DCP, and two senior health officers. However, she refused to dismiss the health secretary.
Kapil Sibal informed the court that Banerjee assured no punitive action would be taken against doctors who return to work.
