The atmosphere at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital under the leadership of Principal Sandip Ghosh was reportedly characterized by fear, intimidation, and systemic corruption, according to several former interns who spoke exclusively to The Telegraph Online. These allegations come amidst ongoing investigations into Ghosh’s involvement in a high-profile rape and murder case, as well as a separate probe into corruption charges.
Allegations of Intimidation and Corruption
Sandip Ghosh’s tenure as the principal of RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, which began in February 2021, has been marred by allegations of authoritarian rule. Interns who worked under his administration describe an environment where dissent was not tolerated and fear was a constant presence.
“The rule of fear was pervasive,” an intern from South Bengal recounted. “From the moment Ghosh took over, there was a noticeable shift. The previous student union was sidelined in favor of the Trinamul Chhatra Parishad (TMCP). Any issues we raised were met with threats and intimidation. It was clear that dissent was not an option.”
Interns allege that Ghosh used the TMCP as a tool for enforcing his will and suppressing opposition. “The TMCP members were not just enforcers but also played a crucial role in administering the college,” another intern revealed. “They were involved in everything from threatening students to ensuring that only those who complied with Ghosh’s directives succeeded.”
Protests and Repression
In August 2021, students initiated a protest against Ghosh’s administration, demanding reforms and greater transparency. The response from the principal was reportedly severe. “Ghosh established a committee to monitor and restrict our communication,” one intern said. “The committee was disbanded once the protests subsided, but the intimidation continued. Students who participated in the protests were threatened and even beaten.”
The interns claimed that the threats extended beyond physical intimidation. “I was told that failing my exams was inevitable,” an intern said. “The TMCP members close to Ghosh threatened me, saying, ‘We’ll see how you become a doctor.’ Such intimidation tactics were meant to silence us and ensure compliance.”
Corruption and Favoritism
The allegations of corruption under Ghosh’s tenure include claims of favoritism and financial misconduct. Interns assert that favoritism was rampant, with TMCP-affiliated students receiving preferential treatment. “Those associated with the TMCP not only passed their exams but were also given priority for housestaff positions,” one intern said. “There were also claims that some students paid money to secure these positions.”
The ongoing investigations have further uncovered troubling practices. Ghosh is currently under scrutiny by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for his role in the rape and murder case of a postgraduate trainee doctor, a case that has sparked national outrage. The CBI’s involvement has intensified following a Calcutta High Court directive for a thorough probe into corruption allegations against Ghosh.
Legal Battles and Public Scrutiny
Ghosh’s legal troubles have been compounded by public scrutiny and legal challenges. The Calcutta High Court recently criticized the Bengal government for the timing of its investigation into Ghosh’s corruption, questioning why it took a high-profile case to prompt action. The court has now transferred the corruption probe to the CBI, amplifying the pressure on Ghosh.
The Supreme Court of India has also weighed in, questioning the circumstances surrounding Ghosh’s reinstatement after he initially resigned in the wake of the rape and murder case. The court’s scrutiny underscores the gravity of the situation and the broader implications for the medical institution and its governance.
Interns’ Perspective and Impact
For the interns who endured Ghosh’s reign, the impact of the alleged abuses has been profound. Many have reported lasting effects on their academic and professional lives, shaped by an environment where fear and corruption were commonplace. “The atmosphere was toxic,” one intern lamented. “It wasn’t just about getting through exams; it was about surviving a system that was rigged against us.”
As the investigations continue and the legal proceedings unfold, the revelations from RG Kar Medical College and Hospital paint a troubling picture of institutional failure and abuse of power. The testimonies from former interns highlight the urgent need for reform and accountability within the institution.
Conclusion
The saga of Sandip Ghosh’s tenure at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital serves as a stark reminder of the potential for corruption and intimidation in educational institutions. As investigations proceed and the legal process advances, the call for justice and reform grows louder. The experiences of the interns provide a crucial window into the realities of life under Ghosh’s administration, underscoring the need for systemic change to ensure that such abuses of power are not repeated in the future.