Kolkata, January 18: The Additional District and Sessions Court in Sealdah is expected to deliver its verdict today in the daunting rape and murder case involving a student doctor at the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. This case became the epicenter of national issues and led to several anti-violence protests in West Bengal and beyond.
A Nation Shaken
The incident, which occurred on August 10, 2024, involved the brutal assault and murder of a young trainee doctor, allegedly at the hands of Sanjay Roy, a civic volunteer. Roy is charged under Sections 64, 66, and 103 of the Bharatiya Nyay Samhita for Rape, Death Causing, and Murder respectively. The case unfolded under intense public scrutiny, with doctors, students, and civil society groups staging protests demanding swift justice.
The charge sheet was filed on 7 October, and the trial began on 11 November 2024. As the case was of great sensitivity, it was heard on camera (both in CBI and West Bengal sessions). It was held in a court for a multitude of CT proceedings with 50 witnesses including the child’s parents, forensic attendants CBI, and Kolkata police investigating officers.
A Family’s Agony
On the eve of the verdict, Sanjay Roy’s mother’s voice was full of anguish, “Everything is finished for me. I don’t know anything. Don’t ask me.”
“Don’t ask me, I don’t know anything. Everything is finished for me,”
she said, her voice weary with anguish. Reflecting on her son’s fate and the accusations against him, she added,
“I have become old. I don’t even have the energy to ask for updates.”
Timeline of Events
The horrific crime ignited a series of dramatic developments:
- August 12: Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee issued a seven-day deadline to Kolkata Police to resolve the case, warning of a potential handover to the CBI.
- August 13: RG Kar’s principal, Sandip Ghosh, resigned amid mounting protests. The Calcutta High Court called the incident “extremely gruesome” and urged protesting doctors to return to duty.
- August 14: The CBI took over the investigation following the High Court’s intervention.
- August 18-20: The Supreme Court scheduled and conducted a crucial hearing, allowing a polygraph test for Roy and six others.
- August 27: The Paschim Banga Chhatra Samaj held a massive march demanding Mamata Banerjee’s resignation.
- November 4: Charges were officially filed against Roy, setting the stage for the trial.
The case also led to the arrests of former principal Sandip Ghosh and local police officer Abhijit Mondal for allegedly tampering with evidence. However, they were granted bail due to the CBI’s failure to submit a supplementary chargesheet within 90 days.
Public Outrage and Political Reactions
The incident sparked an outpouring of anger and demands for justice. Doctors at RG Kar Medical College launched protests that quickly spread across the state. Political leaders weighed in, with Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari stating,
“This crime is not the work of just one person. There are layers of complicity, including from the state police and health department.”
He urged the CBI to leave no stone unturned in exposing those involved in the crime and its cover-up.
Awaiting Justice
As the court prepares to deliver its verdict, the nation’s attention remains fixed on Sealdah. The outcome of this case will not only determine the fate of the accused but also send a strong message about accountability and justice in crimes against women.
Broader Implications
The case has highlighted systemic issues within West Bengal’s healthcare and law enforcement institutions. From the resignation of key officials to evidence tampering allegations, the incident has exposed the cracks in the system. Civil society hopes today’s verdict will mark a turning point in the fight for women’s safety and justice.
As Kolkata waits with bated breath, the victim’s family and the public yearn for closure and hope the court’s decision will be a step toward healing and reform.
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