Today, a Kolkata court will deliver its verdict in the high-profile case involving the brutal rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The tragic incident, which occurred in August 2024, has sparked nationwide outrage, with widespread protests demanding justice for the victim and improved safety for medical professionals.
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), which took over the case from Kolkata Police, has gathered substantial evidence linking the accused, Sanjay Roy, to the crime. DNA samples taken from the victim were found to match Roy’s, and forensic analysis confirmed signs of severe assault. Roy is charged with the rape and murder of the young doctor, whose body was discovered in a seminar hall at the hospital. The victim had fought back fiercely, leaving injuries on the attacker.
Initially investigated by Kolkata Police, the case saw allegations of evidence tampering, prompting the Calcutta High Court to hand it over to the CBI. Former hospital principal Sandip Ghosh and a police officer, Abhijit Mondal, were arrested for their involvement in altering evidence but were later granted bail due to procedural lapses by the CBI.
The case has had significant political and social ramifications, with protests erupting across West Bengal. Critics have pointed fingers at the Mamata Banerjee-led state government for mishandling the case, further fueling anger among the medical community and the public. Demonstrations demanding swift justice and better security for healthcare workers intensified after the victim’s body were found semi-naked, leading to violent clashes outside the hospital.
With the court set to announce its verdict, many hope for a just outcome, which will not only provide closure for the victim’s family but also address the larger issue of protecting medical professionals and ensuring women’s safety in the country.
