Kathmandu: A court in India has convicted Sanjay Roy, a hospital volunteer, for the brutal rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor in August 2024—a crime that triggered nationwide protests and reignited concerns over the safety of healthcare workers, especially women.
Roy was found guilty by Judge Anirban Das at a court in Kolkata, West Bengal. The victim, whose identity is protected by law, was discovered half-naked and severely injured in the seminar hall of the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital after a 36-hour shift. The post-mortem revealed she had been strangled and bore injuries suggesting she fought back.
Roy, who was arrested a day after the crime, has maintained his innocence, claiming he was framed. His sentencing, which will range from life imprisonment to the death penalty, is scheduled for Monday.
The incident provoked widespread outrage across India. Doctors and medical students staged protests, including the “Reclaim the Night” march, where tens of thousands of women took to the streets in Kolkata and other cities. Protesters demanded justice for the victim and improved safety measures for healthcare professionals, a group increasingly vulnerable to violence.
The victim’s parents have called for the death penalty for Roy, arguing it is necessary to restore faith in the legal system. They have also petitioned the Calcutta High Court for a reinvestigation, claiming Roy could not have acted alone. The Supreme Court, which is monitoring the case, has yet to decide if further investigations will proceed.
Source: BBC