Supreme Court Refuses To Transfer Trial Of RG Kar Doctor's Rape-Murder Case From West Bengal

The Supreme Court on Thursday (November 7) refused to transfer the trial in the RG Kar rape-murder case from West Bengal to another State.

When an oral request was made before the Court to shift the trial out of West Bengal, the Court orally said that it was not going to pass any such order.

The development happened before the bench comprising Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, Justice JB Pardiwal and Manoj Misra which is hearing the suo motu case related to the rape-murder of a junior doctor of the RG Kar Medical College Hospital, Kolkata which happened in August.

During the hearing, one counsel said that the trial should be shifted from the State due to the prevalence of "disturbing circumstances" there. Responding to that, CJI Chandrachud said, "Yes, we have done it in cases like Manipur. But we are not doing anything like that here. No such transfer. It will cast doubts on our judiciary."

When another counsel submitted that "the people of West Bengal have lost faith in the judiciary and police of the State", CJI reprimanded him. "Do not talk about people...who are you appearing for? Do not make such general statements. Canteen gossip happening in court!"

When another counsel submitted that the CBI had not done a proper investigation and had only endorsed the findings of the State police, CJI said that the trial judge has the power to order further investigation and that the Supreme Court will not interfere with the powers of the trial court.

Advocate Vrinda Grover, for the family of the victim, said that there are certain factions who did not want the trial to proceed.

Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, for the State of West Bengal, said that the State is glad that the trial proceedings are taking place quickly.

In its latest status report, the CBI apprised the Court that on 4 November 2024, Additional Sessions Judge, Sealdah framed charges against the accused Sanjay Roy and the case is posted next on November 11 for the opening of prosecution evidence.  

The National Task Force, constituted by the Court to give suggestions to enhance the safety of medical professionals, also submitted its report. The Court directed that a copy of the NTF report be shared with all parties in the case, the Chief Secretaries of all States/UTs to give recommendations.

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