On January 18, 2025, the Additional District Judge at Sealdah Court in Kolkata found Sanjay Roy, a 33-year-old former civic police volunteer, guilty of the rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College & Hospital.
- Incident Overview: The victim was discovered deceased in the hospital’s seminar hall on August 9, 2024. Investigations led to the arrest of Sanjay Roy, identified through a Bluetooth earphone found near the crime scene and corroborated by CCTV footage.
- Court Proceedings: During the trial, Sanjay Roy denied the charges, claiming false implication. Despite his claims, the court convicted him based on the evidence presented.
- Sentencing: The court has scheduled the sentencing for January 20, 2025, with potential penalties ranging from life imprisonment to the death penalty.
- Prosecution’s Stance: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), which took over the case following a directive from the Calcutta High Court amid widespread protests, has advocated for the maximum possible punishment for Roy.
This verdict has been met with reactions from various political figures. TMC leader Kunal Ghosh emphasized the accuracy of the Kolkata Police’s swift investigation, while CPI-M leader Brinda Karat highlighted concerns about potential systemic issues contributing to the crime. The case has drawn significant attention, leading to nationwide protests and discussions about safety and justice for medical professionals.