A Sealdah court in Kolkata reprimanded the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Friday for delays in the bail hearing of Sanjay Roy, the prime suspect in the rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor from RG Kar Medical College and Hospital.

Judge Pamela Gupta expressed frustration after the CBI’s investigating officer (IO) and public prosecutor (PP) failed to appear on time, delaying the proceedings. The delay prompted the judge to question whether Roy, who was arrested on August 10, should be granted bail. “Where are the PP and IO? Should I grant bail?” Judge Gupta asked in court.

The CBI lawyer, Dipak Poria, arrived late and opposed Roy’s bail, arguing that his release could hinder the ongoing investigation. Roy, a civic volunteer with Kolkata Police, has been in judicial custody and is due to remain detained until September 20. His defense lawyer, Kavita Sarkar, argued in favor of bail, claiming the CBI had failed to present sufficient evidence.

The case has sparked political controversy, with the Trinamool Congress (TMC) criticizing the handling of the investigation. TMC MP Saket Gokhale accused the CBI of attempting to secure Roy’s release and questioned the agency’s efforts. “CBI wants to get the rape and murder accused monster RELEASED on bail. An active effort is being made by CBI, BJP, and the Modi Govt to run a political agenda and BURY this case,” Gokhale wrote on social media platform X.

The high-profile case has drawn national outrage, following the brutal rape and murder of the trainee doctor last month. The Supreme Court is set to hear the case on September 9, focusing on accusations of non-cooperation by the West Bengal government and delays in the investigation.

The ongoing blame game between the ruling TMC and the BJP has further fueled public anger, with both sides accusing each other of mishandling the case.

Roy’s next bail hearing is scheduled for later this month.