In a significant development in the high-profile rape and murder case at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has replaced its long-serving investigating officer Seema Pahuja with Sandipani Garg. The move comes amid growing dissatisfaction from the victim’s family over the pace and direction of the probe. According to sources, the victim’s parents had repeatedly raised concerns about delays in the investigation and had formally requested a change in leadership. They also demanded a fresh examination of key aspects of the case to ensure a more thorough and transparent inquiry. The CBI’s decision to appoint Garg is being seen as a response to these concerns.
Sandipani has already begun reviewing the case in detail since taking charge. Sources within the investigative team said she is examining all case documents, including evidence, forensic reports, and the sequence of investigative developments so far. There is also a possibility that certain witnesses may be re-questioned, and additional legal steps could be taken if deemed necessary.
An emotional moment marked Garg’s first interaction with the victim’s family. According to sources, the victim’s mother held the officer’s hand and said, “I am placing my trust in you,” expressing hope that the truth will finally emerge and that those responsible will face the harshest punishment under the law.
The change in the investigating officer is widely being viewed as a turning point in the case, which sparked nationwide outrage following the incident in August 2024. Although the CBI has not issued a formal statement detailing the reasons behind the decision, insiders suggest that it was aimed at improving both the pace and credibility of the investigation.
The case dates back to August 9, 2024, when the body of a trainee doctor was discovered in a seminar hall on the fourth floor of RG Kar Hospital. Subsequent investigations revealed that she had been raped and murdered. Sanjay Roy, a civic volunteer with the Kolkata Police, was arrested in connection with the crime and later sentenced to life imprisonment by the Sealdah Court.
However, the victim’s family and several protest groups have consistently maintained that Roy could not have acted alone, raising suspicions of a broader conspiracy. The incident triggered massive protests across the country, with members of the medical community and civil society demanding justice and accountability.
The case also had significant political repercussions. Amid mounting public pressure, then Kolkata Police Commissioner Vineet Goyal was removed from his post. Following a change in the state’s political leadership, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari suspended three IPS officers, including Goyal, over their alleged links to the handling of the investigation.
The government has since indicated that it intends to take a more proactive approach in pursuing justice in the RG Kar case. Observers believe the appointment of a new investigating officer could inject fresh momentum into the probe and potentially uncover new dimensions of the crime.
By Pranab Mondal
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