The RG Kar Medical College is now at the center of a storm, following the horrific rape and murder of a medical student which has sparked widespread outrage across the country. The infamous incident has cast a dark shadow over the prestigious hospital that has long been associated with care and compassion. Let us find out who was the visionary behind the foundation of this famous medical institute in Kolkata.
Dr. Radha Gobind Kar, a pioneering figure in the medical field, was born on August 23, 1850, in the Betar area of Howrah. After completing his schooling, he pursued medical studies at Calcutta Medical College, later moving to Scotland where he achieved the prestigious MRCP degree from the University of Edinburgh in 1887.
Despite opportunities to practise medicine abroad, Dr Kar chose to return to Bengal, dedicating his life to serving the poor and marginalized. Known for his compassion, Dr Kar not only provided medical care to his patients but also financial assistance. He was known to cycle from house to house in the streets of North Kolkata, with a hat on his head and a sling bag on his shoulder, offering his services to those in need.
In 1899, when plague ravaged Calcutta, Dr Kar met the renowned Sister Nivedita and worked tirelessly to combat the epidemic. At that time, Dr Kar was posted as the District Health Officer.
Dr Kar’s deep commitment to the welfare of his people led to the establishment of the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital for which he resorted to fundraising, asking for donations from the wealthy citizens of Calcutta. He personally bought 12 bighas of land in Belgachia, where the foundation of the RG Kar Medical College was laid, then known as Belgachia Medical College.
On July 5, 1916, Lord Carmichael, then Governor of Bengal, inaugurated the two-storey building, following which the institution was named Carmichael Medical College.
It wasn’t until 1948, during a period of severe financial crisis, that the name of the institute was changed to RG Kar Medical College to honour its founder, Dr Radha Gobind Kar. This was possible due to the intervention of West Bengal’s then Chief Minister, Bidhan Chandra Roy.
As RG Kar Hospital now grapples with the fallout from the recent tragedy, descendent of Dr Kar’s family have expressed their concern. Partha Kar, one of the descendants of Dr Kar, emphasized the importance of preserving the hospital’s legacy amid the grueling incident.
“We are not seeking answers to any questions, but we do want a swift resolution to this crisis,” Partha Kar stated. “This hospital was established with a noble purpose. It must continue to serve the people of Bengal and avoid such tragic incidents in the future,” he added.
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