Calcutta High Court Bench Recuses from Hearing RG Kar Rape and Murder Case

May 12, 2026 : In West Bengal, a division bench of the Calcutta High Court comprising Justices Raja Sekhar Mantha and Rai Chattopadhyay on Tuesday recused itself from hearing the RG Kar rape and murder case.

During the hearing, the Central Bureau of Investigation submitted a progress report in a sealed cover. Counsel appearing for the victim’s family alleged that no fresh investigation had been conducted by the agency.

Justice Mantha observed that the bench was unable to devote adequate time to the matter due to the burden of other pending cases. The bench directed that the matter be placed before the Chief Justice and suggested that a commission could be constituted, if required.

Stating that justice must be ensured for the victim’s family, the convicted accused and the CBI’s petition, the bench noted that the entire state was closely watching the proceedings. It decided to step aside to ensure fairness in the adjudication process.

Several judges had earlier also withdrawn from hearing the matter.