A shocking incident at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata has triggered outrage after a man allegedly died inside a malfunctioning elevator, with his family accusing hospital authorities of serious negligence.
Victim Trapped While Visiting Hospital for Son’s Treatment
The deceased, identified as Arup Bandopadhyay, a resident of Dum Dum, had reportedly gone to the hospital to visit his minor son, who is admitted to the trauma care centre.
According to reports, he entered an elevator to reach the fifth floor of the hospital building but got trapped midway. Family members claim he remained stuck inside for over an hour without any assistance.
Death Due to Severe Polytrauma
Officials stated that the post-mortem report confirmed the cause of death as polytrauma, including compression of the chest wall, rupture of vital organs such as the heart, lungs, and liver, along with multiple fractures in limbs and ribs.
Family Alleges Absence of Staff and Delayed Response
Relatives of the deceased alleged that no elevator operator or hospital staff was available at the time of the incident. They claim that despite the prolonged entrapment, no immediate action was taken to rescue him.
The incident sparked protests within the hospital premises, with family members and locals demanding accountability from the authorities.
Five Arrested, Case Filed for Culpable Homicide
Police have taken action in the matter. According to a senior officer, five individuals—including three lift operators and two security personnel—have been arrested.
A case has been registered under provisions related to culpable homicide, and the accused are set to be produced before the court.
Hospital Promises Probe, No Official Explanation Yet
Hospital authorities have stated that the complaints will be addressed and a thorough investigation will be conducted. However, no official explanation has yet been provided regarding how the fatal elevator malfunction occurred.
Meanwhile, a heavy police presence from the local Tala Police Station has been deployed to manage the situation and calm protesting relatives.
RG Kar’s Troubled Past Raises Fresh Concerns
The incident has once again brought RG Kar Medical College and Hospital into the spotlight. The hospital was previously in national headlines following the brutal rape and murder of a woman doctor on its premises in August 2024.
Subsequently, investigations into alleged financial irregularities at the institution were initiated, with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) arresting the then principal, who remains in custody.
This latest tragedy has intensified concerns over safety, management, and accountability at one of Kolkata’s prominent government hospitals.
