Dr Sandip Ghosh, former principal of Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College, has come under intense scrutiny following his questioning by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in connection with the rape and murder of a postgraduate trainee doctor. Ghosh’s involvement in the case has sparked significant public and legal controversy.

The focus on Dr Ghosh intensified after allegations surfaced that he attempted to downplay the severity of the incident, initially labelling it as a suicide. Additionally, it was claimed that he revealed the victim’s face and identity to the public, further complicating the investigation and raising ethical concerns.

The outcry over these actions led to widespread protests. In the wake of these protests, Dr Ghosh resigned from his position as principal of RG Kar Medical College. However, his resignation was followed by his appointment to a new role as the principal of Calcutta National Medical College and Hospital. This reappointment sparked even more outrage, with accusations that Ghosh had political connections with the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and was being protected by influential figures within the party.

Before his tenure at RG Kar Medical College, Dr Ghosh served as the vice-principal at Calcutta National Medical College. He is a well-established surgeon and professor of orthopedics. His career, however, has been marred by controversies and allegations of misconduct.

In June 2023, Dr Ghosh faced allegations of corruption, which led to his transfer to Murshidabad Medical College. According to NDTV, during this period, he locked himself in the principal’s office at Calcutta National Medical College to prevent his replacement from taking over. Within 48 hours, he was reinstated to his former position, demonstrating a rapid and contentious shift in his career.

Following a ragging-related incident in September 2023, Dr Ghosh was transferred to RG Kar Medical College as principal, a position he held until his recent resignation amid the ongoing investigation.

During his tenure at RG Kar Medical College, Dr Ghosh was criticized by students who protested his refusal to establish separate student and resident hall councils. This dissatisfaction among students eventually contributed to his removal from the position. His tenure at RG Kar was also characterized by allegations of poor management and administrative issues.

Dr Ghosh’s proximity to TMC leaders has been a focal point of controversy, with critics alleging that his political connections shielded him from accountability. This perceived influence has fueled suspicions about his swift reappointment and the handling of his previous controversies.

On August 13, 2024, the Calcutta High Court ordered that Dr Ghosh be placed on an extended leave of absence while the investigation into his role in the case continues. The court also expressed disapproval of his rapid reappointment at Calcutta National Medical College, reflecting growing concerns about the propriety of his career movements.

Dr Ghosh has now been subjected to two rounds of questioning by the CBI. Investigators have focused on the long and demanding shifts assigned to the doctor, which are believed to be relevant to the case. The questioning aims to uncover whether these factors had any bearing on the tragic incident involving the trainee doctor.

The ongoing investigation into Dr Sandip Ghosh’s involvement in the rape and murder case, coupled with the controversies surrounding his career, continues to draw significant public and legal attention. The case highlights issues of accountability, institutional integrity, and the impact of political connections on professional appointments.