Kolkata:
In a case that has shaken the nation, a Kolkata court is set to pronounce the sentence for Sanjay Roy, who was convicted of the rape and murder of a 31-year-old postgraduate trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The incident, which occurred on August 9, 2024, sparked widespread protests and calls for improved safety measures in government hospitals. Despite his conviction, Roy maintains his innocence, claiming he was framed.
The victim, a junior doctor on night shift, was found dead in a seminar room of the hospital the next morning. Her semi-naked body was discovered, leading to an outpouring of grief and outrage from the medical community and the public. Sanjay Roy, a civic volunteer with the Kolkata Police, was arrested on August 10, 2024, and subsequently charged with the crime.
The case was transferred to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) following a petition by the victim’s parents and public interest litigations (PILs) to the Calcutta High Court. The CBI’s investigation included forensic evidence, such as Roy’s DNA found on the victim’s body, and other scientific proof that led to his conviction on January 18, 2025.
The trial, which began on November 12, 2024, was conducted in-camera due to the sensitive nature of the case. The CBI filed a chargesheet against Roy and others, including former hospital principal Sandip Ghosh, for various offenses, including financial irregularities. The chargesheet implicated several individuals, but Roy was the primary accused in the rape and murder.
The incident triggered nationwide protests by junior doctors, who demanded justice and stronger security measures in government hospitals. The Supreme Court took suo motu cognizance of the case, emphasizing the need for enhanced workplace safety for medical professionals.
As the court prepares to announce the sentence, the CBI and the victim’s parents are demanding the death penalty, terming this a “rarest of rare case.” Judge Anirban Das has indicated that the minimum sentence for Roy would be life imprisonment, while the maximum could be the death penalty. Roy’s lawyers have cited Supreme Court guidelines on awarding the death penalty, but the judge remains resolute in his decision to deliver justice based on the evidence presented.
The court premises in Sealdah have been fortified with significant security measures to prevent any untoward incidents during the sentencing. Despite being denied permission, protesters, including doctors, have gathered near the court, alleging that Roy could not have acted alone and demanding justice for other potential perpetrators.
The victim’s parents have expressed dissatisfaction with the CBI’s investigation, alleging that other individuals involved in the crime were not brought to justice. They have reiterated their demand for the highest punishment, emphasizing that such criminals have no right to live if society is to prevent future crimes.
As the nation awaits the sentencing, the case continues to highlight the urgent need for improved safety and security measures in public hospitals and the importance of swift and just legal action in such heinous crimes.
