RG Kar rape-murder accused found guilty, judge asserts ‘You must be punished’

Kolkata (The Uttam Hindu): Sanjay Roy, a civic volunteer with Kolkata Police has been convicted of the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The special court delivered its verdict on January 18, 2025 after a trial that drew widespread public attention and sparked national outrage. The horrific incident occurred on August 9, 2024 when the victim’s body was found in a seminar room of the hospital igniting protests across the country.

The trial, which lasted over two months featured testimonies from nearly 50 witnesses and included substantial forensic evidence that linked Roy to the crime. Shortly after the incident, Roy was arrested and charged under several provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for rape and murder. Judge Anirban Das while delivering the verdict, emphasized the severity of the crime stating, "You must be punished."

The court is set to announce Roy’s sentence on January 20, 2025. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has called for the death penalty, describing the crime as one of the "rarest of rare" cases due to its brutality and the widespread public outcry it provoked. Roy faces the possibility of capital punishment or life imprisonment. This case has highlighted critical concerns about the safety of medical professionals and institutions, prompting protests in Kolkata and other cities. Demonstrators have called for stricter protections for healthcare workers and greater accountability within law enforcement. The public sentiment remains strong with many advocating for the harshest punishment to deliver justice for the victim and serve as a deterrent against similar crimes.