A CBI court on Saturday convicted Sanjay Roy, a civic volunteer with Kolkata Police, for the rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata. The gruesome incident, which occurred on August 9 last year, triggered nationwide protests and demands for justice. Roy was arrested a day after the crime and charged with rape and murder. His conviction comes after a trial lasting 57 days, marking a critical moment in the pursuit of justice for the victim and her family.
The court said the quantum of punishment will be pronounced on Monday, January 20.
While the judge was pronouncing the verdict, Roy said he is innocent and did not commit the crime. He even said and IPS officer is involved in the crime but nobody is taking action against him.
Timeline of the RG Kar Case
August 9, 2024: The semi-naked body of the trainee doctor was discovered on the third floor of the seminar hall at RG Kar hospital.
August 10, 2024: Kolkata Police arrested Sanjoy Roy, sparking the first wave of protests by doctors across West Bengal.
August 12, 2024: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee gave Kolkata Police a seven-day deadline to solve the case or transfer it to the CBI. RG Kar principal Sandip Ghosh resigned amid the protests.
August 13, 2024: The Calcutta High Court criticized the case’s handling and urged doctors to resume service. The court transferred the case to the CBI, citing lack of progress.
August 14, 2024: A CBI team of 25 members, including forensic experts, began investigations. Mamata Banerjee organized a protest rally, while civil society groups staged ‘Reclaim the Night’ marches.
August 15, 2024: A mob vandalized RG Kar hospital’s emergency department and nursing station, prompting the Indian Medical Association (IMA) to call for a nationwide withdrawal of services on August 17.
August 18, 2024: The Supreme Court scheduled a hearing for August 20 after taking cognizance of the incident.
August 20, 2024: The Supreme Court, led by then Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, directed the formation of a national task force to ensure the safety of medical professionals and demanded status reports from the West Bengal government.
September 2, 2024: Sandip Ghosh was arrested by the CBI for alleged financial irregularities during his tenure at RG Kar hospital.
October 7, 2024: The CBI filed a chargesheet against Sanjoy Roy, solidifying the prosecution’s case.
November 12, 2024: An in-camera trial commenced, focusing on both the crime and procedural lapses in the investigation.
Public Outrage and Institutional Reforms
The incident triggered mass protests and calls for systemic reforms to ensure the safety of medical professionals. The case highlighted procedural delays, missing evidence, and allegations of corruption within RG Kar hospital. The hunger strike by West Bengal Junior Doctors Front and subsequent engagement with the state government underscored the demand for accountability.
The outcome of today’s verdict will mark a critical juncture in the case, which has been closely followed by the medical community and the public. The judgment will not only decide the fate of Sanjoy Roy but also reflect the judiciary’s stance on addressing crimes against healthcare workers and ensuring swift justice.
