SC dismisses plea to transfer RG Kar case

The Supreme Court on Thursday turned down a request to transfer the trial in the high-profile rape and murder case of a junior doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata to another state, affirming that the trial will proceed in West Bengal.

- Utkarsh Anand

The case, concerning the brutal August 9 attack, has drawn significant attention and concerns over ensuring a fair and swift trial.

The request to shift the trial outside West Bengal was made during a hearing before a bench comprising Chief Justice of India (CJI) Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud and justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra. Some advocates, appearing in the proceedings initiated by the top court on its own motion (suo motu), urged the transfer, citing "disturbing circumstances" in the state. Responding to these concerns, the bench acknowledged that the court has moved cases in exceptional situations, such as the Manipur unrest, but clarified, "No such transfer here. We are not doing anything like that."

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, representing the West Bengal government, conveyed the state's commitment to a speedy trial. Sibal underscored the state's readiness to ensure accountability, stating: "We are very keen that the case is expedited. The state wants to ensure that those responsible are punished quickly."