Supreme Court Rejects Dr. Sandeep Ghosh's Petition Challenging CBI Investigation in Corruption Case

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Siliguri, September 6, 2024: The Supreme Court of India has rejected a petition filed by Dr. Sandeep Ghosh, the former principal of RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, challenging the Calcutta High Court's order for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into allegations of financial corruption during his tenure. The decision marks a significant setback for Dr. Ghosh, who sought to overturn the High Court’s directive for an independent investigation by the central agency.

The case was heard on Friday by a bench comprising Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, Justice Manoj Mishra, and Justice JB Pardiwala. After extensive deliberation, the bench ruled that it would not interfere with the ongoing investigation, emphasizing that the CBI probe, as directed by the Calcutta High Court, would continue unhindered.

Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, during the hearing, stated, "A public interest case has been filed regarding financial corruption. The investigation is going on under the supervision of the High Court. Hence, there is no need for intervention." He further asserted that the Supreme Court would not entertain Dr. Ghosh’s plea at this stage, thereby reinforcing the High Court's jurisdiction over the matter. The decision suggests that the Supreme Court trusts the existing process of judicial oversight by the Calcutta High Court.

Dr. Sandeep Ghosh, who was accused of financial irregularities and corruption during his tenure at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, had approached the Supreme Court following the Calcutta High Court's order mandating a CBI investigation. The allegations against Dr. Ghosh include misuse of hospital funds, fraudulent transactions, and other acts of financial mismanagement. The High Court's order came as part of a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by a group of concerned citizens and hospital employees, demanding transparency and accountability in the functioning of the prestigious medical institution.

A section of legal experts believes that the Supreme Court’s decision is a major blow to Dr. Ghosh, as it not only dismisses his plea but also upholds the authority of the High Court to oversee such investigations. The court emphasized that the judiciary would not act as a "parallel authority" to derail an investigation already under judicial scrutiny.

During the hearing, the Supreme Court also directed the CBI to submit a status report on its ongoing investigation by Monday, coinciding with the hearing of a related rape and murder case at RG Kar Hospital. The Chief Justice indicated that the apex court would consider its next course of action based on the findings of the status report.

While Dr. Ghosh's counsel attempted to shift focus to the role of former RG Kar Commissioner Akhtar Ali, raising questions about his alleged involvement in separate cases of misconduct, the Supreme Court refrained from commenting on those allegations. Dr. Ghosh's lawyer argued that despite several complaints against Akhtar Ali, the Calcutta High Court had dismissed them. "There are allegations against him. He could be transferred on complaint," the lawyer stated, suggesting a bias in handling such matters. However, the Supreme Court maintained that it is the prerogative of the police administration to determine whether Akhtar Ali is guilty or innocent, thereby sidestepping any direct remarks on the issue.

The decision by the Supreme Court has been met with approval from several quarters, including the junior doctors of RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, who have been agitating for a thorough investigation into the corruption allegations. The doctors welcomed the Supreme Court's decision to let the CBI probe continue, stating it would ensure transparency and accountability in the administration of the hospital.

As the case proceeds, all eyes will be on the CBI's status report, which could significantly influence the next judicial steps in this high-profile corruption case. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court's firm stance on non-interference reiterates its commitment to allowing due process and judicial oversight to take their course in matters involving public interest and accountability.