Kolkata’s Sealdah Sessions Court is set to deliver its verdict on January 18 in the horrifying RG Kar Medical College rape and murder case. The case revolves around the brutal rape and murder of a trainee doctor, who was attacked after completing her night shift at the state-run hospital on August 9, 2024. The crime sent shockwaves across the nation and spurred widespread protests demanding justice.
The Calcutta High Court had earlier transferred the investigation to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), citing public outrage and allegations of mishandling by local authorities. The CBI later filed a chargesheet against the principal accused, Sanjoy Roy, a civic volunteer with the Kolkata police. The prosecution has sought the death penalty, arguing that the crime was premeditated and heinous.
The father of the victim remains resolute in his quest for justice, expressing confidence in the judiciary. “We are moving courts, and one matter is sub judice before the High Court and another listed before the Supreme Court. The DNA report confirms the involvement of others as well,” he said, urging the court to carefully examine the evidence before delivering its judgment.
The Investigation
Initially, the West Bengal CID arrested Sanjoy Roy, but the case took a controversial turn when the jurisdictional police registered it as an “unnatural death,” suggesting suicide. Allegations soon surfaced implicating the former principal of RG Kar Medical College, Sandip Ghosh, and the officer-in-charge of the local police station in obstructing justice. Both were accused of conspiring to downplay the incident.
A public interest litigation (PIL) led the Calcutta High Court to transfer the case to the CBI. Investigations into alleged malpractices by Sandip Ghosh were also handed to the central agency. However, delays in filing chargesheets against Ghosh and the officer-in-charge resulted in their release on bail.
The only remaining accused against whom a chargesheet was successfully filed is Sanjoy Roy. The case hinges on forensic evidence and witness testimonies that the CBI presented during the trial.
Nationwide Impact
The crime led to country-wide protests, with demands for justice and enhanced workplace safety for doctors. In a historic move, the Supreme Court took suo moto cognizance of the case, framing new guidelines for the protection of medical professionals. It also monitored the CBI’s investigation to ensure transparency and accountability.
The father of the deceased doctor reiterated his belief in the judicial process, despite the family’s arduous legal battle. “The court will surely deliver a fair judgment,” he said.
Awaited Verdict
As the sessions court prepares to pronounce its verdict, the nation awaits justice in this high-profile case. Sanjoy Roy’s conviction could set a significant precedent, reinforcing the public’s faith in the legal system while emphasizing the need for stringent measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
With the victim’s family seeking closure and the prosecution advocating the harshest punishment, all eyes will be on the Kolkata court’s ruling on January 18.
BY – KARTIK
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