Kolkata (Agencies): A police volunteer has been found guilty of the rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor at the R G Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata, a case that sparked nationwide protests against sexual violence in India.
The Civil and Criminal Court in Sealdah convicted 33-year-old Sanjay Roy on Saturday after a fast-tracked trial. The victim’s bloodied body was discovered in a classroom at the state-run hospital last August, exposing persistent issues with the safety of women in public spaces.
Judge Anirban Das, who delivered the verdict, stated that circumstantial evidence proved Roy’s guilt. The defendant, who continues to insist on his innocence, now faces a possible life sentence or the death penalty. The sentence is expected to be announced on Monday.
During the trial, which began on November 11, 51 witnesses were examined. However, Roy’s defense argued that the investigation and forensic reports contained discrepancies, raising questions about the case’s thoroughness.
The victim’s parents expressed their dissatisfaction with the probe, claiming the crime could not have been committed by a single individual. “Our daughter could not have met such a horrific end by one man,” said her father. “Her soul will not rest in peace until all the culprits are punished.”
The case has reignited discussions about India’s ongoing struggle with sexual violence and the systemic challenges in ensuring justice for victims. As the nation awaits the sentencing, the verdict is seen as a critical step toward accountability in a case that has deeply shocked the public conscience.