Why did Police run away? Supreme Court orders CISF security at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital

The Supreme Court Tuesday questioned West Bengal police for its alleged failure to protect women doctors during a mob attack on August 15 at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in the aftermath of the rape and murder of a 31-year-old doctor at the college..The Bench of Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud, Justice JB Pardiwala and Justice Manoj Mishra ordered Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) to take over the security of the hospital after reviewing a complaint by the doctors over the alleged inaction of police."This is a very serious issue, Mr. Sibal," the CJI said addressing Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal who was representing West Bengal.The Court remarked that the West Bengal government could not have been unaware about the possibility of such a law and order situation. It asked the State as to why the police ran away when faced with the crowd."Thirty-seven were arrested, and they were recognized from the CCTV footage. The West Bengal government could not have been unaware that there would be elements who would disturb it! The lady doctors were called by name and threatened that they would meet the same fate as the deceased. How did the police run away? Be rest assured that this is not an ordinary complaint that has been made to us now. What is the police doing?" the Court demanded..The Court was hearing the suo motu matter initiated in relation to the gruesome crime which has sparked outrage and protests across the country.The Court today also formed a National Task Force to look into safety and wellbeing of medical professionals..During the hearing, the Court was informed by counsel for the women doctors residing at the ladies' hostel that when they were threatened by a mob, the police ran away from the scene."The parents are not sending the lady doctors as they are not feeling safe. Doctors have also stated that Police were inside the female changing room. Please see the sealed envelope to see what is the position of the doctors there," the counsel added.Referring to the Court's earlier appeal to doctors to resume duty for the marginalised who are suffering, Justice Pardiwala questioned whether the police would be able to safeguard the hospital and doctors.Accordingly, the Court directed CISF to take over the security and provide protection to the hospital..[Read Orders].Follow Bar and Bench channel on WhatsAppDownload the Bar and Bench Mobile app for instant access to the latest legal news.