Surgeons from Kolkata swept away by strong currents during high tide in East Midnapore
In a heartbreaking incident, a doctor couple from Kolkata lost their lives after drowning at Tajpur beach in East Midnapore, sending shockwaves across the medical community. The victims were identified as 32-year-old Kuntal Chakraborty, a general surgeon, and his wife, 30-year-old Shailaja Bhardwaj, a gynaecologist.
According to reports, the couple had travelled to Tajpur on Wednesday and entered the sea despite high-tide conditions. Preliminary findings suggest that Shailaja Bhardwaj was caught in strong currents, and Kuntal Chakraborty drowned while attempting to rescue her.
Bodies recovered by fishermen, police launch investigation
The bodies of the couple were later spotted by local fishermen near Biswa Bangla beach in Tajpur, who alerted the authorities. Police from the Mandarmani Coastal Police Station reached the spot, recovered the bodies, and sent them to Balisai Hospital, where they were declared brought dead.
Authorities have registered a case of unnatural death and initiated an investigation to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the incident. Officials indicated that the couple had entered a relatively secluded part of the beach during rising tide, which may have contributed to the tragedy.
Couple were respected doctors and active in social causes
Residents of Ghola in Sodepur, the couple had been married for around two years and were working at a private hospital in Kolkata. Their sudden demise has left family members, colleagues, and neighbours in deep shock.
A relative stated that the couple had left for Tajpur earlier that day and entered the sea soon after arriving, unaware of the dangerous tide conditions.
Medical community pays tribute
Expressing grief over their untimely deaths, the West Bengal Junior Doctors’ Front paid tribute to the couple, describing them as compassionate professionals dedicated to both their patients and social causes.
In a statement, the association said the two doctors stood firmly with the fraternity in its fight for justice in the Abhaya case and were actively involved in movements supporting medical professionals.
A tragic reminder of coastal safety risks
Police officials reiterated that entering the sea during high tide, especially in less crowded or unmonitored areas, can be extremely dangerous. The incident highlights the need for greater awareness and caution among tourists visiting coastal regions.
The bodies have been sent for post-mortem, and further investigation is underway.
