RG Kar morgue row: 2 arrested for vandalism; Viral video reveals autopsy irregularities

Two morgue attendants, Santosh Mallik and Shambhu Mallik, from RG Kar Medical College were arrested on Thursday for allegedly vandalizing government property while intoxicated. Police reports state the duo caused significant damage to morgue equipment during the incident. The arrests have triggered an administrative review of morgue operations, which are now under scrutiny for procedural lapses.

Videos show Santosh Mallik playing an active role in autopsy procedures. In one video, he is seen dictating details such as the deceased’s weight and descriptions of head injuries, which department head Prabir Chakraborty documents. Another video shows Mallik inspecting injuries on a body, raising concerns about whether attendants are performing duties beyond their scope, including tasks reserved for forensic experts. These videos, reportedly from last year, have drawn widespread attention to operational practices at the morgue.

The RG Kar Medical College administration has formed an inquiry committee to investigate these allegations. Officials confirmed that the committee will examine autopsy protocols, the roles of morgue staff, and the accuracy of past reports. The forensic medicine department is also under scrutiny for its involvement in a separate high-profile case under CBI investigation. Further findings from the inquiry are awaited.