Supreme Court Advocates for Childcare and Feeding Rooms in Public Spaces

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Supreme Court Advocates for Childcare and Feeding Rooms in Public Spaces The Supreme Court of India has suggested that the Union Government develop a comprehensive policy addressing the construction of feeding rooms and childcare facilities  in public places. This move aims to ensure that nursing mothers and their children can access basic amenities in a dignified and private manner, reinforcing their fundamental rights under the Indian Constitution. SC Encourages Policy Formulation A bench comprising Justice BV Nagarathna  and Justice N Kotiswar Singh  highlighted the absence of a structured framework to address this pressing issue. The court advised the Centre to propose a policy that could then be implemented across the states, scheduling the next hearing for December 10, 2024.   The apex court emphasized that before issuing formal directions, it was crucial to understand the Centre’s perspective on implementing the petitioner’s demand for childcare and feedi...
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Supreme Court Expresses Concern Over CBI’s Disturbing Findings in Kolkata Doctor’s Rape and Murder Case

Supreme Court Expresses Concern Over CBI’s Disturbing Findings in Kolkata Doctor’s Rape and Murder Case


In a recent hearing, the Supreme Court of India voiced its deep concern regarding the disturbing findings presented by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in the ongoing investigation into the rape and murder of a doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, a state-run facility in Kolkata, West Bengal. The case, which the Supreme Court took up suo motu, has brought attention to severe discrepancies in the investigation, particularly in the handling of evidence and the overall probe process.


CBI’s Findings Raise Alarm in the Court


A bench comprising Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, along with Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra, expressed their dismay after reviewing the status report submitted by the CBI. The court stated that the findings in the report are "really disturbing," and echoed concerns raised by a lawyer regarding inconsistencies, such as issues with the seizure list.


The Court acknowledged the sensitive nature of the case and chose not to disclose specific details from the CBI report, citing the potential risk of jeopardizing the ongoing investigation. The court made it clear that the focus of the CBI should remain on unearthing the absolute truth, and assured that they are giving the investigative agency sufficient time to complete the probe.


Supreme Court Urges CBI to Include Victim’s Family in the Process


The Court also emphasized the importance of considering valuable inputs from the father of the victim. The Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the CBI, assured the Court that the agency would continue to inform and remain in touch with the victim’s family during the investigation. The top court reiterated that this communication is essential to maintain transparency and provide justice.


Denial of Live Streaming Halt: Public Interest vs. Threats to Lawyers


During the proceedings, Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, representing the State of West Bengal, raised concerns regarding the live streaming of the case. He noted that the streaming was leading to public backlash, with lawyers receiving threats on social media platforms. Sibal pointed out that female staff in his chambers were being threatened with acid attacks and rape, raising serious concerns about the safety of legal professionals involved in the case.


However, the Court declined to stop the live streaming, stating that the case is of public interest and must be transparent. The Court assured that it would intervene if any threats were made against lawyers or others involved in the case, emphasizing that no one should be subject to such intimidation.


Supreme Court Stresses on Equal Opportunities for Women Doctors


In a significant remark, the Supreme Court highlighted the importance of equal opportunities for women, particularly in light of a West Bengal Government notification that temporarily barred women doctors from working night shifts or beyond 12 hours. The notification was part of recent security measures following the tragic incident at RG Kar Medical College.


However, the Court, while hearing the suo motu petition, stated that women doctors do not seek concessions but equal opportunities and that they are willing to work in all conditions. The Bench asserted that the state’s duty is to provide safety for women professionals, not to restrict their work. The West Bengal government, represented by Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, assured the Court that the restriction would be removed, and no punitive action would be taken against doctors returning to work.


Supreme Court Condemns Political Submissions


The Supreme Court also expressed its displeasure at an application seeking the resignation of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. The Court sternly reminded the lawyer submitting the application that the courtroom is not a political forum, and warned him to abide by the rules of legal discipline. The Bench made it clear that the Court is focused on legal matters, not personal opinions about political functionaries.


Protection of Victim’s Identity: Wikipedia Ordered to Comply


In another significant development, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the Court that the name and photograph of the victim had appeared on Wikipedia, violating the principles of non-disclosure of rape victim identities. The Court promptly directed Wikipedia to comply with its previous orders and remove any content that could reveal the victim’s identity, reinforcing the legal requirement to maintain the dignity and privacy of the victim.


Conclusion


The Supreme Court’s intervention in the RG Kar Medical College rape and murder case underscores the gravity of the situation and the need for a thorough and transparent investigation. The Court’s insistence on equal opportunities for women doctors, its emphasis on the CBI’s duty to unearth the truth, and its strong stance against political misuse of the legal process reflect its commitment to delivering justice while maintaining legal integrity. 


As the CBI continues its investigation, the Court will remain vigilant in ensuring that the process remains fair, with inputs from the victim’s family and a close watch on any developments that could affect the outcome of the case.

Location: Pune, Maharashtra, India

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