The West Bengal government has suspended three IPS officers over alleged administrative lapses and negligence in the handling of the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital case, officials said on Saturday.
According to sources in the state administration, the action was taken after an internal review reportedly found serious shortcomings in supervision, investigation procedures and overall handling of the sensitive case, which had triggered widespread public outrage across the state.
The suspended officers include senior police officials who were posted in key positions during the investigation. The state government reportedly accused them of failing to discharge their duties properly and not taking timely action despite the seriousness of the incident.
The RG Kar case had sparked massive protests by doctors, medical students and civil society groups after allegations emerged regarding irregularities and lapses in the investigation process. Questions were repeatedly raised over evidence handling, police response and communication with the victim’s family.
Officials said the suspension order was issued as part of departmental proceedings and further inquiry into the conduct of the officers is currently underway. The government is expected to review additional records and examine whether more officials were responsible for procedural failures.
The move comes amid continuing political pressure and criticism from opposition parties, which have accused the state administration of attempting to suppress facts related to the case. Protest demonstrations demanding accountability and justice have continued in several parts of West Bengal over the past few months.
Meanwhile, senior state officials maintained that the government is committed to ensuring transparency and accountability in the investigation. They said strict action would be taken against anyone found guilty of negligence or misconduct.
The suspension of the IPS officers is being seen as a significant administrative step by the state government as the RG Kar case remains one of the most discussed and politically sensitive issues in West Bengal in recent times.
