Kolkata rape-murder case: With 'no lawyer' for accused, CBI faces delays in polygraph test

The CBI is considering additional security measures for Ray during his court appearances.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has received preliminary permission to conduct a polygraph test on Sanjoy Ray, a 33-year-old civic volunteer accused of raping and murdering a 31-year-old doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The process has been, however, facing delays due to a lack of legal representation.

Initially, no lawyer was willing to represent Ray, complicating the scheduling of the polygraph test. The district court in Sealdah had granted permission for the test earlier this week, a crucial step in verifying Ray's statements.

The polygraph test, also known as a lie detector test, measures physiological responses like heartbeat, breathing changes, sweating, and blood pressure to determine truthfulness. Although the test was scheduled for Tuesday, it was postponed due to the absence of a lawyer. A legal aid counsel has now been appointed to inform Ray about the test's physical and psychological aspects. The CBI can proceed with the test once Ray consents.

The CBI is also concerned about the security situation, given the widespread public anger and ongoing protests. The agency is considering additional security measures for Ray during his court appearances.

Meanwhile, former RG Kar Hospital principal Sandip Ghosh's responses have been reportedly inconsistent with each round of questioning, according to sources within the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The CBI has already interrogated over 30 individuals and is examining Ghosh’s call records and communications. The investigation aims to determine whether Ghosh was aware of any pressures or complaints related to the victim and is also reviewing the management of the hospital and the renovation of the seminar hall where the crime occurred.

On Monday, the state government announced the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate financial irregularities at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital during Ghosh’s tenure since 2021.

The ruling party has been pressing for updates from the CBI, stating that the state police initially arrested Ray before the investigation was transferred to the central agency. The Supreme Court has requested a status report from the CBI by August 22.