Alina
Ghosh Challenges HC Verdict in SC
Ghosh Moves Supreme Court Against High Court Order
Sandip Ghosh, the former principal of Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, has escalated his legal battle to the Supreme Court, challenging a recent order by the Calcutta High Court. The High Court had dismissed Ghosh’s plea to be included as a party in a petition that alleged financial irregularities at the institution during his tenure.
Background of the High Court Case
On August 23, 2024, the Calcutta High Court issued a significant order transferring the investigation into alleged financial misconduct at RG Kar Medical College from a state-constituted Special Investigation Team (SIT) to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). This decision came in response to a petition filed by Akhtar Ali, the former deputy superintendent of the hospital. Ali had requested that the probe into the financial irregularities be taken over by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), citing concerns over the SIT’s effectiveness.
Ghosh’s Involvement in the Case
Ghosh, who was the principal during the period when these alleged financial irregularities occurred, sought to be included as a party in the ongoing case. His request was, however, rejected by the High Court on the grounds that he was not considered a “necessary party” in the matter. The court held that the case could proceed without Ghosh’s involvement, a decision that led him to approach the Supreme Court.
Details of the Allegations
The allegations against Ghosh and the hospital administration during his tenure are serious. They include claims of financial mismanagement and irregularities in the allocation and utilization of funds. These allegations surfaced amid a broader investigation into the administrative practices at the state-run hospital, which is one of the most prominent medical institutions in Kolkata.
Nationwide Protests Following a Tragic Incident
The situation at RG Kar Medical College has been further complicated by the recent murder and alleged rape of a junior doctor at the hospital. The body of the doctor, bearing severe injury marks, was discovered in the seminar hall of the hospital’s chest department on August 9, 2024. The incident has triggered nationwide protests and has cast a shadow over the ongoing investigations into the hospital’s financial dealings.
A civic volunteer was arrested by the Kolkata Police in connection with the case just a day after the doctor’s body was found. The investigation into this tragic incident is ongoing, with widespread public and media scrutiny.
Transfer of the Investigation to CBI
The Calcutta High Court’s decision to transfer the financial irregularities investigation from the SIT to the CBI is a significant development. The move reflects concerns about the impartiality and effectiveness of the state-conducted investigation. The CBI, being a central agency, is expected to bring a higher level of scrutiny and transparency to the probe.
Ghosh’s challenge to the High Court’s order in the Supreme Court centers on his exclusion from the case. He argues that as the principal during the period in question, his involvement is crucial for a fair and comprehensive investigation. Ghosh’s legal team contends that the High Court’s decision to dismiss his plea was unjust and that the Supreme Court should reconsider his inclusion in the case.
Looking Ahead
As the case progresses to the Supreme Court, it is expected to attract significant attention. The allegations of financial misconduct, coupled with the tragic events at the hospital, have already made this a highly sensitive issue. The Supreme Court’s decision on whether to allow Ghosh to be added as a party to the case will likely have far-reaching implications for the investigation.
In the coming weeks, the legal battle over the administration of RG Kar Medical College and Hospital will continue to unfold, with the eyes of the nation closely watching the developments.
