No dharnas, rallies allowed near RG Kar for next 7 days

The Kolkata administration has issued an order prohibiting protests, rallies, processions, dharnas, or demonstrations around RG Kar Medical College and Hospital for the next seven days. The move comes in the wake of widespread unrest following the rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor at the hospital.

According to the official order, signed by Kolkata Executive Magistrate and Police Commissioner Vineet Goyal, Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 (which has replaced the earlier Section 144 of the CrPC), has been enforced to restrict any form of large gatherings in the area surrounding the hospital. The ban took effect at midnight on Sunday, August 18, and will remain in place for seven days or until further notice.

The official notification cited credible intelligence inputs that indicated a high likelihood of violent demonstrations, rallies, or meetings by certain groups, which could lead to breaches of peace, disturbances in public tranquillity, and potential risks to public safety and human life.

RG Kar Medical College and Hospital has become the focal point of intense protests as people demand justice for the slain trainee doctor. The administration's decision to impose the ban is seen as a measure to prevent any further escalation of violence and maintain law and order in the area.