Former India skipper Sourav Ganguly on Saturday (August 17) condemned the heinous rape-murder of a trainee doctor in Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital.

The incident has shaken the entire country as multiple protests are going around for the demand of quick justice. Ganguly also called for severe punishment and clarified one of his earlier statements on the issue.

Earlier, several social media users had claimed that Ganguly called it a 'one-off incident'. But the legendary cricketer, who hails from Kolkata, said his comments were taken out of context.

"I told that last Sunday, I don't know how it was construed or was interpreted. I have said it earlier also, it's a terrible thing. Now CBI, police are investigating the matter. Its very shameful what has happened. I hope that CBI, who are investigating the matter, once they find the culprit strict punishment should be given. The punishment should be such that no one dares to commit such crime again in their life. That is important. Punishment has to be severe," Ganguly told reporters.   

After an order from the Calcutta High Court, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is now probing the case.

"We have identified at least 30 suspects and have started questioning them," a CBI officer said on Friday (August 16).

Meanwhile, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) has called for a nationwide strike during which routine OPD services and elective surgeries will not be conducted. However, all emergency services will be functional.

The Health Ministry has urged the agitating doctors to resume their duties in the public interest and assured them that a committee would be set up to ensure the safety of healthcare professionals.