Film 'Tilottama' based on RG Kar medical college tragedy to be announced in Kolkata amid renewed controversy

KOLKATA: A movie company will formally announce on Tuesday a project inspired by the RG Kar Medical College & Hospital tragedy that shocked the country and triggered sustained protests by doctors and citizens.The announcement for the movie film “Tilottama” will be held in the presence of the victim's mother Ratna Debnath, who is now an MLA, having won from the Panihati constituency on a BJP ticket. Two-time National Award-winning director Ujjwal Chatterjee, along with the film’s cast and crew will be present. Actor Jaya Prada will also be at the event.The makers describe “Tilottama” as a tribute to courage, remembrance and the relentless pursuit of justice, reflecting “the spirit of a city that never forgets” and a society seeking answers and accountability.The film’s launch comes after earlier resistance from the victim’s family. Chatterjee had previously attempted to develop the project with state-owned public broadcaster, Prasar Bharati, but faced strong pushback, with the family objecting to repeated requests for consent while they awaited justice. The family has now given its go-ahead, paving the way for the official announcement.“Tilottama” has also been at the centre of wider controversy linked to attempts to adapt the case for the screen. A separate short film effort in late 2024—titled “Agomoni, Tilottomader Golpo” and backed by then TMC student wing leaders Prantik Chakraborty and Rajanya Haldar—was condemned by the Trinamool Congress for using a sensitive matter under active investigation, and was shelved ahead of its proposed release.On August 9 last year, the body of a post-graduate trainee was found in the seminar hall of RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, setting off nationwide outrage and prolonged demonstrations. A trial court has since sentenced Sanjoy Roy, the lone convict, to life imprisonment. The Central Bureau of Investigation has not yet completed its probe into the alleged “larger conspiracy” behind the crime.