RG Kar Rape-Murder Case: Sanjay Roy Sentenced To Life, 'Not Rarest Of Rare...,' Says Kolkata Court

Sanjay Roy Sentenced To Life Imprisonment

Judge Anirban Das of the additional district and sessions court in Sealdah heard Sanjay Roy’s statement at around 12:30 pm on Monday, January 20, 2025 before delivering the sentence.

During the proceedings, Roy's lawyer argued, as per Hindustan Times, "Even if this is a rarest of rare case, there should be room for reformation. The court must explain why the convict is not capable of rehabilitation. The public prosecutor should present evidence and provide reasons why the individual should be entirely removed from society."

Meanwhile, the victim's family lawyer expressed a strong preference for the death penalty, stating, "I want the death sentence as the maximum punishment."

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During the hearing, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) strongly pushed for the death penalty, referencing Supreme Court guidelines on capital punishment. Highlighting the severity of the crime, the CBI argued, “Creating such an offence is a rarest of rare crime.” The agency further stated, “Two sections call for the death penalty. This case qualifies for the rarest punishment, as it would set a precedent and instill confidence in society,” according to Indian Express.

What Is RG Kar Rape And Murder Case?

The R G Kar rape-murder case involves the tragic death of a 31-year-old junior doctor, who was raped and murdered at the state-run R G Kar hospital in Kolkata on August 9, 2024. Her body was discovered in the hospital's seminar room. The incident sparked nationwide outrage and led to widespread protests by junior doctors in West Bengal, calling for justice and enhanced security at government hospitals.

The trial for the case began in a Kolkata court on November 11, 2024, three months after the incident. The CBI took over the investigation from the Kolkata Police, following the Calcutta High Court's orders. The CBI has demanded the ‘maximum punishment’ for the accused, Roy. The trial concluded on January 9, 2025.

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Roy was found guilty of rape and murder by a special court, almost six months following his arrest. The judge indicated that the severity of the crime could result in either a life sentence or the death penalty. However, junior doctors at RG Kar Hospital, where the victim was a trainee, voiced their discontent with the ruling. They pointed out lingering uncertainties and the failure to address other potential suspects, urging for a more in-depth investigation into the case, including the motive and possible involvement of others.

In the courtroom, the Public Prosecutor argued that the death penalty should be reserved for cases where there is no possibility of reform, urging a thorough review of the evidence and its adequacy. The prosecutor also highlighted the need to consider mental health and social factors when advocating for alternative punishments, as reported by Indian Express.

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Credits: ANI Twitter/Freepik