Kolkata, 14 August (H.S.): Former Panihati MLA Nirmal Ghosh, who was arrested in connection with the rape and murder of a woman doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, was brought to Khardaha Police Station on Friday morning. He was later taken to the Barrackpore Sub-Divisional Court, amid strong protests outside the police station.

According to the police, Ghosh was arrested from Odisha and brought to Khardaha Police Station for further questioning and legal proceedings. While he was being escorted from the police station to the police prison van, protesters allegedly threw eggs at him. Ghosh was seen wearing a helmet apparently to protect himself from the protesters. However, he still faced angry demonstrations, with reports of him being pushed and allegedly slapped and kicked.

Former councillor Sanjib Mukherjee, who was also arrested in the case, faced similar protests. BJP workers and supporters gathered outside the police station and raised slogans of “chor-chor”. Some protesters were also seen carrying garlands made of footwear, while loud DJ music was played outside the police station.

The police arrested Ghosh and Mukherjee following a fresh complaint lodged by the father of the deceased doctor. Another accused named in the complaint, Trinamool Congress municipal representative Somnath Dey, remains untraced and a search is underway to locate him.

The victim’s father was also present at Khardaha Police Station when the accused were being taken to court on Friday. He did not speak to the media. Sources said he may record a confidential statement in connection with the case and could be provided separate police security.

The woman doctor’s body was recovered from the seminar hall of RG Kar Medical College and Hospital on August 9, 2024. The incident triggered widespread outrage across the country. Allegations were subsequently raised that her body was cremated in haste without the family’s consent. Ghosh was the MLA at the time and has been accused of playing a role in the alleged hurried cremation.

The victim’s father later lodged a fresh complaint against three persons in connection with the matter. Apart from former MLA Ghosh, the complaint named neighbour Sanjib Mukherjee and Trinamool Congress municipal representative Somnath Dey. Mukherjee was arrested on Thursday night, while police are continuing their search for Dey.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Priyanka Pandey