RG Kar Case: Convict Sentenced to Life Imprisonment, Judge Rejects Death Penalty Request

Kolkata Court Verdict

A Kolkata court sentenced Sanjay Roy, the convict in the rape-murder case of a 34-year-old doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, to life imprisonment. Justice Anirban Das stated that the case does not fall under the 'rarest of the rare' category to warrant the death penalty.

Compensation and Reactions

The court directed the West Bengal government to pay Rs 17 lakh as compensation to the victim's parents. However, the parents, who were present in the courtroom, rejected the compensation, stating they wanted justice, not money. The judge clarified that the compensation was mandated by law and could be utilized as they deemed fit.

Convict's Statement and Judgment

During the sentencing, Roy claimed innocence, saying, I haven't done this. I have been framed. Lots of things were destroyed, but if I had done it, then my rudraksha mala would have broken . Justice Das responded, saying the decision was based on evidence presented in court and after hearing all arguments.

CBI's Demand for Death Penalty

The CBI, which investigated the case after taking over from Kolkata Police, demanded the death penalty for Roy. The prosecution argued that it was a 'rarest of rare' case. However, the court ruled against it, considering Supreme Court guidelines on awarding the death penalty.

Protests and Allegations

Security was heightened at Sealdah court premises to prevent unrest as protesters, including doctors, gathered near the court despite permission being denied. Protesters alleged that Roy could not have acted alone and demanded justice for all perpetrators involved in the crime.

The victim's parents expressed dissatisfaction with the CBI's investigation, stating that others involved in the crime had not been apprehended. Such criminals have no right to live if we are to prevent future crimes in society, the victim's mother said.

Incident Overview

The 34-year-old doctor, a postgraduate trainee at RG Kar Medical College, was on a night shift when the incident occurred. She was found dead in a seminar room the next morning. The crime sparked nationwide protests, with doctors suspending work to demand better safety for women in hospitals.