In cases of rape and murder, post-mortem reports play a crucial role in the investigative process. Recently, however, a troubling delay has emerged. A departmental doctor submitted a post-mortem report to the police a year after the incident, prompting the Crime Branch IG to express his concerns. He wrote a letter to the Health Secretary, urging action against the responsible doctor.
The tragic murder of a woman in the Mayurbhanj district due to a misdemeanor highlights this issue. This brutal act occurred on October 3, 2022, in the Badampahad police station area. After the police seized the woman’s body, they sent it to Rairangpur Hospital for autopsy. Medical Officer Dr. Savita Mahant conducted the autopsy but submitted the report only on September 20, 2023. This delay of nearly a year has understandably angered the Crime Branch IG, who insists that authorities must investigate the performance of such doctors.
This situation raises a critical question: how can a common man attain justice if doctors display such negligence in serious cases like murder? Guidelines clearly state that an autopsy report should appear within 3 to 7 days following a homicide. District Chief Medical Officer (CDMO) Abhay Kumar Das has voiced his concerns over the delay in the post-mortem report.
He confirmed that he has not yet received any correspondence on this issue but assured that he would initiate an investigation once he does. Das emphasized that such delays are unacceptable, stating, “According to the guidelines, the report should be provided within 3 to 7 days.” Unfortunately, he acknowledged that a lack of required staffing has contributed to these delays and mentioned ongoing efforts to outsource personnel.
In summary, this situation raises significant concerns about the efficiency and accountability of medical professionals involved in critical investigations. Timely reports are not just bureaucratic formalities; they are essential for ensuring justice is served.