Kolkata, January 20, 2025 — A sessions court in Kolkata sentenced Sanjay Roy to life imprisonment for the gruesome rape and murder of a postgraduate doctor at the R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital. The verdict, delivered by Additional District and Sessions Judge Anirban Das in Sealdah, also imposed a fine of ₹50,000 on the convict and directed compensation of ₹17 lakh to the victim’s family.
While acknowledging the gravity of the crime, Judge Das stated that it did not qualify as the “rarest of the rare” and opted for life imprisonment instead of the death penalty. The judgment has sparked widespread criticism from political leaders, the victim’s family, and the public alike.
Outrage Over the Verdict
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed dissatisfaction with the court’s decision, reflecting the sentiments of many who believe justice was not fully served. The parents of the deceased doctor voiced their anguish, claiming the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) failed to conduct a thorough investigation.
“We are shocked. How is this not the rarest of rare cases? An on-duty doctor was raped and murdered in cold blood. There was a larger conspiracy behind this crime,” the victim’s mother said, adding that the family intends to appeal the verdict in a higher court.
The victim’s father echoed the sentiment, vowing to fight until all individuals involved in the crime are held accountable.
Political Reactions and Allegations
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has strongly criticized the verdict. BJP IT Cell Chief Amit Malviya termed it a “travesty of justice” and called for an appeal against the ruling.
“Life imprisonment and a ₹50,000 fine for Sanjay Roy in the RG Kar rape-murder case is unacceptable. Justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done,” Malviya started on X. He alleged that evidence was tampered with and accused Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and the then Kolkata Police Commissioner of shielding the guilty.
The BJP has demanded a fresh investigation into the case to uncover the alleged involvement of others.
The Case Timeline
The crime occurred on August 9, 2024, when the victim, a postgraduate trainee doctor, was brutally raped and murdered while on duty at the state-run hospital. Sanjay Roy, a former civic police volunteer, was arrested and charged with the crime.
On January 18, 2025, the court found Roy guilty of rape and murder. The charges carry a minimum sentence of life imprisonment and a maximum capital punishment. However, the court opted for the former, stating the crime did not meet the threshold for the death penalty.
Calls for Justice
The case has reignited discussions about women’s safety and the efficiency of the judicial and investigative systems. Many believe the punishment does not match the severity of the crime, especially considering the circumstances under which it occurred.
The parents of the victim have alleged that other culprits involved in the crime were shielded, accusing the CBI of a lackadaisical investigation. They have resolved to continue their fight for justice, urging the judiciary to reconsider the case and deliver harsher penalties.
A Fractured System
The incident has also drawn attention to broader systemic issues. As the case heads toward potential appeals in higher courts, the family and public await a resolution that upholds the ideals of justice and accountability.
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