Sourav Ganguly on Kolkata Rape Horror: Punishment must fit the crime

A rape-murder case involving a doctor at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital has sent shockwaves across the nation, sparking widespread protests. The Calcutta High Court has directed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to take over the case. A CBI officer reported on Friday that they have identified and begun questioning at least 30 suspects.

Former India captain and ex-BCCI president Sourav Ganguly condemned the incident, calling for severe punishment. He also clarified a previous statement that had sparked controversy, where some social media users claimed he referred to it as a 'one-off incident.' Ganguly, a Kolkata native, insisted that his words were taken out of context.

VIDEO | Kolkata medic rape-murder case: "...this is a terrible thing, and what has happened is very shameful. The CBI and the police are investigating this, and I hope the strictest of punishment will be given to the accused," says former India cricketer Sourav Ganguly… pic.twitter.com/Q9N8wuk0fN

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) August 17, 2024

I mentioned this last Sunday, and I'm unsure how it was misconstrued. I've always said it’s a terrible thing. Now that the CBI and police are investigating, it's very shameful what has happened. I hope that once the culprit is found, strict punishment is given. The punishment should be such that no one dares to commit such a crime again. That is crucial. Punishment has to be severe, Ganguly told reporters.

Doctors' Strike: Health Ministry's response and IMA's reform demands

Amid escalating protests over the horrific rape-murder of a trainee doctor at a Kolkata hospital, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) has announced a nationwide strike. During the strike, routine OPD services and elective surgeries will be suspended, but all emergency services will remain operational.

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The Health Ministry has urged the protesting doctors to return to work in the public interest, assuring them that a committee will be established to address the safety of healthcare professionals. Representatives from all stakeholders, including state governments, have been invited to contribute suggestions to the committee.

The Indian Medical Association (IMA), the largest doctors' organization in India, has called for significant improvements in the working and living conditions of resident doctors, including the elimination of 36-hour shifts and the provision of safe resting areas. They are also advocating for a central law to prevent violence against medical professionals in the workplace.