Trial begins over rape and murder of doctor in Calcutta, India

The trial has revived criticism of India’s poor record on women’s safety, despite the introduction of tougher laws following the gang rape and murder of a woman on a moving bus in New Delhi in 2012.

It also sheds light on the poor infrastructure and security in government hospitals in India, many of which lack basic amenities including CCTV cameras and security staff.

About 128 witnesses will be questioned during the trial, court sources told Reuters. Hearings are taking place daily as authorities want to speed up the high-profile case. They will not be open to the public.

One source, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the father of the female doctor, the alleged victim, gave evidence on Monday.

In addition to defendant Roy, the Indian Federal Police said they had arrested the officer in charge of the local police station and the hospital superintendent for alleged evidence tampering and financial irregularities.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee met protesters last month and accepted most of their demands, doctors seeking reforms said, but added they would monitor progress on her promises and keep up the pressure for change.