Justice served: Sanjay Roy found guilty by Kolkata's Sealdah court in gruesome rape-murder case of trainee doctor

West Bengal: Sanjay Roy has been found guilty of the brutal rape and murder of a junior doctor at RG Kar Medical College, igniting national outrage and protests for justice. The verdict, delivered swiftly after a 57-day trial, highlights ongoing concerns about women's safety in India.

A Gruesome Crime

On August 9, 2024, the lifeless body of a 28-year-old postgraduate medical trainee was discovered in a seminar room at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata. The shocking incident sent ripples of horror across the nation, prompting widespread protests from junior doctors demanding justice and enhanced security measures in public hospitals. The victim's family has been vocal about their grief and the need for a thorough investigation into the crime.

Swift Justice: A Verdict Delivered

On January 18, 2025, Sanjay Roy, a civic volunteer with Kolkata Police, was convicted under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for his role in the heinous crime. The additional district and sessions judge, Anirban Das, announced the verdict after an in-camera trial that began on November 12. Roy's claims of innocence were dismissed by the court, which will determine his sentence on January 20.

Public Outcry and Demands for Accountability

The verdict has sparked renewed calls for justice from various groups, including the Junior Doctors’ Front and other medical associations. Outside the court, protesters demanded the maximum punishment for Roy, emphasizing that such crimes must not go unpunished. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has sought capital punishment for Roy, presenting evidence that includes CCTV footage linking him to the crime scene.The case has highlighted the urgent need for improved safety protocols for women in public spaces and workplaces. As protests continue, many are calling for a broader investigation to uncover any possible accomplices involved in this tragic event.The RG Kar rape-murder case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggles women face regarding safety and justice in India.