Kolkata's RG Kar Case: Sanjay Roy found guilty in gruesome rape-murder of medical trainee

West Bengal News: In a landmark verdict that has reverberated across India, Sanjay Roy, a police volunteer, was found guilty on Saturday of the heinous rape and murder of a junior doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata. This swift trial, which concluded in just 57 days, has ignited national outrage over the persistent issue of women's safety.

Trial and Verdict

The ruling was delivered by Anirban Das, the additional district and sessions judge at Sealdah court, following an in-camera trial that began on November 12. Roy was convicted under several sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which governs offenses related to rape and murder. Specifically, he faces severe penalties under Sections 64 for rape and Sections 66 and 103(1) for murder, with the latter carrying a potential death sentence or life imprisonment. During the proceedings, Roy maintained his innocence, claiming he was framed. The judge has scheduled a hearing for Monday to determine the sentence.

Public Reaction and Protests

The case has drawn significant public attention, particularly from the medical community. The victim's parents expressed their gratitude to the court for delivering justice, emphasizing their trust in the legal system. Outside the court, tensions ran high as protesters gathered, demanding the harshest punishment for Roy. Koushik Maity, a leader of 'Bangla Pokkha,' stated, “He must be given the strictest punishment; it should set a precedent.”

Background of the Crime

The tragic incident occurred on August 9 when the lifeless body of a 28-year-old postgraduate medical trainee was discovered in a seminar room at RG Kar Medical College. Following this shocking event, doctors across Kolkata staged protests demanding justice and enhanced security measures at public hospitals. Roy was arrested shortly after the crime, with investigators suggesting he acted alone; however, both the victim's family and junior doctors have expressed concerns about a possible conspiracy.

Calls for Broader Investigation

Despite Roy's conviction, questions linger regarding the thoroughness of the investigation. The victim's parents have voiced their belief that “one person alone couldn’t have done this” and called for a more extensive inquiry to uncover any additional culprits involved. The Junior Doctors’ Front (JDF) has also announced plans for further demonstrations to advocate for improved safety measures within healthcare settings.

As Sanjay Roy awaits sentencing, this case serves as a grim reminder of the ongoing struggle for women's safety in India. The swift judicial response reflects society's demand for accountability while highlighting the need for systemic changes to protect vulnerable individuals.