A Kolkata sessions court found Sanjoy Roy guilty in the RG Kar rape-murder case, relying on forensic evidence. Sentencing is set for Monday, with a possible death penalty or life imprisonment.
A sessions court in Kolkata has convicted Sanjoy Roy, the main accused in the RG Kar rape-murder case, finding him guilty of the heinous crime. The court's verdict comes after a thorough examination of forensic evidence that linked Roy to the crime scene. The sentencing hearing is scheduled for Monday, with the prosecution seeking the maximum penalty. This case, which dates back to August 2024, stirred national outrage and led to significant judicial interventions, including a CBI investigation and a Supreme Court suo moto cognizance to enhance workplace safety for doctors.
Court Proceedings
- Conviction of Sanjoy Roy
- The sessions court found Sanjoy Roy guilty of the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital.
- Roy pleaded innocence, asserting that he was not involved in the crime.
- The court relied on forensic reports that confirmed the presence of Roy's DNA at the crime scene and on the victim's body.
- Judicial Observations
- Sessions Judge Anirban Das remarked that the maximum sentence Roy could face is the death penalty, while the minimum sentence would be life imprisonment.
Background of the Case
- Incident Overview
- The brutal rape and murder occurred in August 2024, causing nationwide protests and demands for justice.
- Initially investigated by the West Bengal CID, the case was transferred to the CBI by the Calcutta High Court following a Public Interest Litigation (PIL).
- The matter reached the Supreme Court, which took it up suo moto to formulate guidelines for the safety of doctors at workplaces and to oversee the investigation.
- Public Reaction and Protests
- Widespread protests erupted across Kolkata and other parts of the country, urging swift legal action against the perpetrators.
Legal Proceedings and Investigations
- CBI Investigation and Chargesheets
- The CBI took over the investigation and filed a chargesheet against Sanjoy Roy.
- Allegations of malfeasance and corruption were raised against former principal Sandip Ghosh, leading to further legal scrutiny.
- Action Against Police Officials
- The Officer-in-Charge of the jurisdictional police station initially registered the case as one of unnatural death, hinting at a possible suicide.
- Allegations of collusion between the officer and the former principal led to the transfer of the investigation.
- Bail for Other Accused
- Due to the CBI's delay in filing chargesheets against the former principal and the officer-in-charge, they were granted bail, leaving Sanjoy Roy as the only accused formally charged.
Next Steps
- The court will determine the quantum of punishment in the upcoming sentencing hearing.
- Legal experts anticipate arguments from both the prosecution and defense regarding the severity of the sentence.
