Kolkata Police issue summonses to former BJP MP and doctors for revealing identity of rape victim
Times of India | 18 August 2024
File photo NEW DELHI: Kolkata Police have issued summonses to former BJP MP Locket Chatterjee and two doctors, Dr. Kunal Sarkar and Dr. Subarna Goswami, along with 57 others. They are accused of allegedly spreading rumors and disclosing the identity of a woman doctor who was raped and murdered at R G Kar Medical College and Hospital.
The police have called Dr. Kunal Sarkar and Dr.Subarna Goswami to appear at Kolkata Police Headquarters in Lalbazar at 3 pm on Sunday. An officer stated that these individuals are being accused of revealing the victim's identity and spreading false information about the incident.
Renowned cardiologist Dr. Kunal Sarkar confirmed receiving the police summons but stated he is currently out of town.
"Yes, I have received the summons. But at the moment, I am out of town and have informed the Kolkata Police about that. I do not know why they have called me, but it seems that some of my comments on social media have elicited certain reactions nationally and internationally... maybe because of that," Sarkar said.
Dr. Subarna Goswami, Deputy Chief Medical Officer of Purba Bardhaman district, mentioned that he has not yet received the summons but expressed his willingness to cooperate with the investigation.
"I am yet to receive anything. I do not know why Kolkata Police will issue summons to me when they are not investigating the case. I have been saying that I will cooperate with the probe in every possible manner. I didn't reveal the identity of the victim or spread any rumour."
Former BJP MP Locket Chatterjee, representing the Hooghly constituency, also stated that she has not received any summons yet.
"It would have been better if they had shown the same promptness while investigating the case. Everyone wants justice for the girl," she said.
Kolkata Police Commissioner Vineet Goyal highlighted during a press conference that rumors have significantly hindered the investigation and posed threats to law and order.
The situation remains tense as the police continue to summon these individuals for further questioning and to address the misinformation surrounding the case.
(The victim's identity has not been revealed to protect her privacy as per Supreme court directives on cases related to sexual assault)