A shocking rape and murder at R.G. Kar Medical College highlights India's systemic corruption, selective justice, and the political motivations driving media coverage of violence against women. Satyabrata Ghosh writes…

The tragic rape and murder of a 31-year-old medical student at R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata has ignited national outrage. This case, which highlights India's corruption, and the intersection of politics and media coverage, raises critical questions about the treatment of women and the influence of political agendas in determining which cases receive attention. In a country where 90 rapes are reported daily, why does this incident stand out? As India grapples with these issues, the call for accountability and justice grows louder. 

A Tragic Crime Unfolds

It’s been over a month since the rape and murder of a 31-year-old postgraduate trainee doctor at R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata. When I first heard about this case, I was struck not only by the sheer brutality of the crime but also by the disturbing response that followed. The victim was found in a seminar room on campus—at the very institution she had dedicated her life to, and the shocking details have stirred a mix of outrage, grief, and confusion across the country.

But what has puzzled me the most is why this case, as horrifying as it is, has drawn such intense attention while other equally devastating cases of violence against women seem to fade into obscurity. I can’t help but wonder: is it because this incident occurred in a state ruled by a political opposition, making it a convenient flashpoint for those in power to exploit? In a country where nearly 90 rapes are reported every day, why is this case more significant than the others? Isn't every violation of a woman just as important?

The Role of Corruption

I find myself grappling with more than just the crime itself. The deeper issue here is the way in which corruption has twisted and ruined our systems, institutions, and, ultimately, justice itself. According to some reports, there are allegations that the administration of R.G. Kar Medical College played a role in trying to cover up the crime. It’s alleged that the principal himself may have been involved in removing evidence, with the complicity of hospital staff and even the local police. If true, this would point to a pervasive rot within the very institutions meant to protect and serve.

But here’s the thing—I’ve heard stories like this before, in different forms and different places. Corruption, especially in government hospitals, is nothing new. I’ve seen how young doctors, brimming with enthusiasm to help, are often beaten down by a system that values bureaucracy and self-interest over people’s lives. When we talk about this case, we are not just talking about the tragic loss of one life. We are talking about a system that has failed at multiple levels—a system where justice can be bought, sold, or hidden.

In this particular case, while accusations against the hospital principal and others are still under investigation, the fact remains that the broader problem of corruption has led to mistrust in the authorities, the judiciary, and even the media. It's hard to feel confident that this case—or any case—will be handled with the urgency and fairness it deserves.

Why This Case? Why Now?

This brings me back to my initial question—why this case? Why now? I don’t say this to diminish the importance of what happened at R.G. Kar, but when I see the frenzy surrounding it, I can’t help but think of the countless other cases of violence against women that don’t receive half the attention. Is this because this crime took place in West Bengal, a state governed by the opposition, and it suits those at the centre to highlight it? Is it a convenient distraction from the government's failures elsewhere? 

As I think about this, I realize the sad truth: in India, justice is too often tied to politics. Some cases become national headlines, while others disappear into the background, their victims forgotten. This isn't just an issue with the media but also with the judiciary. Every rape, every murder, every violation of a woman should be treated with equal importance, regardless of where it happens or who is in power.

There is a growing public outcry against a corrupt system that seems to be shielded from accountability. This outrage is directed at the 'culture of intimidation' that targets those who speak out against bribery and other practices that violate institutional standards. The horrific death of the victim at R G Kar Medical College and Hospital is also being seen as a stark warning to all who dare to protest. Instead of succumbing to such threats, the students are determined to put an end to this harmful dominance. Citizens, including some senior doctors, have joined the movement to send a strong message against those who benefit from such misconduct.                   

I’m left with a lingering frustration that the systems in place to protect us have been tainted by corruption and politics. As Durga Puja approaches, I can't help but think of the irony. We will celebrate the triumph of good over evil, yet we continue to live in a society where evil—whether it’s in the form of violence, corruption, or injustice—seems to win far too often. This case is a painful reminder of how far we still have to go to protect our women, hold the corrupt accountable, and ensure justice is blind to politics.