The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has intensified its probe into the brutal rape and murder of a doctor at Kolkata’s R G Kar Medical College and Hospital, a case that has sparked nationwide protests and demands for justice. The investigation, which was officially taken over by the CBI on August 14, will be spearheaded by two distinguished women officers renowned for their work on high-profile cases.
Sampat Meena, a 1994 batch IPS officer from Jharkhand, will lead the investigation as the additional director of CBI. Meena, who has previously served as the Inspector General (IG) in BPR&D New Delhi and held key positions in various districts including Ranchi, Dhanbad, and Deoghar, is recognized for her advocacy on women’s issues and human rights. She played a pivotal role in the 2017 Unnao rape case, securing a conviction against BJP leader Kuldeep Singh Sengar.
Seema Pahuja, an Additional Superintendent of Police, will manage the ground-level investigation. Pahuja, who previously worked alongside Meena on the Hathras case, has a distinguished career marked by significant achievements including dual gold medals for outstanding investigative work and her involvement in the Gudiya case of 2017, which utilized advanced DNA technology to secure a life sentence for the perpetrator.
Pahuja, who holds a BCom degree, joined the agency in 1988 and became a sub-inspector in 1993. She was promoted to the rank of deputy superintendent of police in 2013, and finally became an ASP in 2022.
The CBI’s team of 25 officers, led by Meena, will focus on various aspects of the case, while Pahuja will handle the detailed on-ground investigation. Additionally, the CBI is set to conduct a psychological assessment of the accused, Sanjay Roy, who is currently in custody.
The appointment of Meena and Pahuja underscores the CBI’s commitment to addressing the gravity of the case with experienced professionals. Their previous successes in handling sensitive cases bring hope for a thorough and just investigation into the Kolkata tragedy.
