[4][5] It was established in 1886 to ensure self-sufficiency in medical education and services in the colonial era.

[7][8] The college is a co-educational institution that is recognized by the National Medical Commission and affiliated with the West Bengal University of Health Sciences.

[7][10][11][12] Dr. Suresh Prasad Sarbadhikari was the first President of the institution, and Kar was its first Secretary.

[7] The college offers MBBS, post-graduate diploma (DNB), post degree medical courses (MS, MD) and super specialty courses (DM, and MCh).It has a capacity of 250 MBBS 175 MD, MS, DNB Seats.

The incident has since sparked significant outrage and nationwide protests which demanded a thorough investigation while also questioning the safety of doctors and also women in their workplaces in India.