Kolkata: A sessions court in Kolkata on Saturday delivered its verdict in the horrific case of the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The court found Sanjoy Roy, a civic volunteer, guilty of the crime, marking a pivotal moment in the 162-day legal battle.
The verdict, pronounced by Sessions Court Judge Anirban Das, was based on a detailed investigation led by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The crime, which took place on August 9, sent shockwaves across the city, with the victim being a Postgraduate Trainee (PGT) intern on duty when the incident occurred.
CBI’s Investigation and Evidence
The CBI, which took over the case from the Kolkata Police on August 13, presented a compelling case against Roy, relying heavily on biological and forensic evidence. Over 120 witnesses were examined during the investigation, and a 66-day in-camera trial was held.
Key evidence presented included:
DNA and Saliva Samples: DNA collected from the victim’s body matched Roy’s samples.
Crime Scene Evidence: Roy’s injuries indicated a struggle, and a clump of hair at the scene was linked to him.
Missing Device: CCTV footage showed Roy leaving the premises with a Bluetooth device, which was later found at the crime scene and confirmed to pair with his phone.
Forensic Reports: A medical board concluded the victim’s death was caused by manual strangulation and smothering.
Details of the Crime
The victim’s body was discovered in the seminar hall near the TB ward. Investigators found the victim had been subjected to brutal assault, with injuries on her neck, lips, and private parts. Her spectacles were broken, and she was found bleeding from her eyes, mouth, and other areas.
The CBI described the incident as a "rarest of the rare" case, citing the severity of the crime and the forensic evidence against Roy.
Defense Argument Rejected
Sanjoy Roy, who was arrested a day after the crime, pleaded not guilty, claiming he was framed. His defense counsel, Sourav Bandyopadhyay, argued that the crime was impossible to commit unnoticed within the 28 minutes in question, especially in a busy area near a 24/7 nursing station.
Despite these claims, the court upheld the prosecution’s evidence, dismissing the defense’s narrative.
Public Outrage and Verdict
The incident sparked widespread outrage, with demands for swift justice. The court’s judgment brings a sense of closure to the victim’s family and highlights the importance of forensic evidence in solving such cases.
Sanjoy Roy’s sentencing is awaited, as the case now moves into its final phase. This landmark judgment serves as a grim reminder of the importance of safety and vigilance in public institutions.
