A Kolkata court on Saturday declared Sanjay Roy guilty of the rape and murder of an on-duty doctor at the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The heinous crime, committed on August 9, 2024, had ignited nationwide protests and sparked conversations about the safety of medical professionals. Additional District and Sessions Judge Anirban Das delivered the verdict, stating that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) successfully proved all charges against the accused.
Charges Under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita
Sanjay Roy was convicted under Sections 64 and 66 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which deal with rape and punishment for murder, respectively. He was also found guilty under Section 103 (1) of the Act, which entails life imprisonment or the death penalty for such crimes. The court ruled that Roy sexually assaulted and strangled the doctor, a crime described as both brutal and premeditated.
Sentencing Scheduled for Monday
The court has scheduled Roy's sentencing for Monday. His statement will be recorded at 12:30 pm, after which the sentence will be pronounced. Legal experts believe that Roy may face the maximum penalty due to the severity of the crime.
Trial and Public Outrage
The in-camera trial commenced in November 2024, following 162 days of intense investigations. The case drew significant public and media attention, leading to widespread protests and calls for swift justice. Healthcare professionals and civil society groups used the case to demand better safety protocols for frontline workers.
The verdict is seen as a step toward justice for the victim, who has become a symbol of the fight for safer working environments for medical professionals. As the nation awaits the final sentencing, the case underscores the urgent need for systemic reforms to address violence against women and vulnerable professionals.
The RG Kar Medical College case remains a stark reminder of the pressing challenges in ensuring justice and protecting those who serve society.