Sealdah Court To Pronounce Verdict In R G Kar Doctor's Rape-Murder Case Tomorrow, Sanjay Roy Is Prime Accused

The much-anticipated judgment in the horrific rape and murder case of an on-duty doctor at R G Kar Medical College and Hospital, which triggered nationwide outrage and widespread protests, will be pronounced on Saturday (18 January). 

The case, which highlighted the vulnerability of medical professionals in state-run hospitals, has been closely followed across the country.

The accused, Sanjay Roy, a civic volunteer with the city police, was charged with the heinous crime committed against the postgraduate medical trainee on 9 August 2024. 

The verdict comes 57 days after the trial began in the court of additional district and sessions judge Anirban Das at Sealdah court.

The incident unfolded when the doctor’s body was discovered in the hospital’s seminar room. Acting swiftly, Kolkata Police arrested Roy on 10 August. 

However, the case was later transferred to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) by the Calcutta High Court. The CBI, citing the brutality of the crime, has sought the death penalty for the accused.

The victim’s parents have expressed dissatisfaction with the current investigation, maintaining that others may also have been involved in the crime. 

They have filed an application before the court requesting further investigation and the arrest of additional suspects.

This crime, which sent shockwaves through the country, sparked prolonged protests by junior doctors in Kolkata, demanding justice for their colleague and stronger security measures in state-run hospitals.

The protests highlighted the unsafe working conditions of medical professionals and the urgent need for systemic reforms.

In light of the gravity of the case, the Supreme Court took suo motu cognizance of the incident and established a National Task Force (NTF) to propose safety protocols for doctors and medical staff nationwide. 

The NTF submitted its recommendations to the apex court in November 2024, emphasising the need for robust security frameworks in healthcare institutions.