In anticipation of the verdict in the RG Kar case, security measures at the Sealdah court complex in Kolkata have been significantly heightened. The court is the focal point of a highly publicized trial concerning the alleged rape and murder of a 28-year-old postgraduate medical trainee, whose body was found in a seminar room at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital on August 9, 2024. The accused, Sanjay Roy, a civic volunteer with Kolkata Police, was arrested shortly after the crime.
As the judgment day approached, police erected multiple barricades to manage access and ensure safety for all attendees. The atmosphere outside the court was charged with tension, as groups of lawyers and citizens gathered to discuss the implications of the case. Many expressed hope for justice, while others voiced skepticism about the investigation’s thoroughness. The victim’s family has consistently called for a broader inquiry, believing that Roy may not be the only perpetrator involved.
The trial began in November 2024 and unfolded behind closed doors, with significant media coverage highlighting public outrage over workplace safety for medical professionals. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) sought the maximum punishment for Roy, presenting evidence including CCTV footage that placed him near the crime scene.
On January 18, 2025, Judge Anirban Das delivered the verdict finding Roy guilty under multiple sections of Indian law related to rape and murder, with sentencing to be announced shortly thereafter.
Protests erupted outside the court as demonstrators demanded capital punishment for Roy. Activists from various medical associations planned demonstrations to emphasize their demand for justice and improved safety measures in hospitals. Koushik Maity, a leader from ‘Bangla Pokkha’, articulated the sentiment shared by many: “He must be given the strictest punishment; it should set a precedent”
The case has sparked national discussions about women’s safety and accountability within healthcare settings. As Sealdah prepares for the sentencing phase, it stands as a pivotal moment in addressing broader societal issues surrounding violence against women and workplace security for medical professionals
