Kolkata, Jan 19 (V7N) — The conviction of Sanjay Roy, the sole accused in the rape and murder of a doctor at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College, has sparked widespread dissatisfaction and protests across West Bengal. Many are questioning whether Roy acted alone in the heinous crime, raising concerns about the scope and integrity of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe.

The case, which shook the state last August, led to mass protests from Kolkata to the districts and even drew international attention. Despite the announcement of the verdict on January 18, civil society and medical professionals remain unconvinced that justice has been fully served.

Sanjay Roy, a Civic Volunteer, was found guilty under sections 64 (rape), 66 (death after rape), and 103(1) (murder) of the Indian Penal Code. The Sealdah court is set to announce his sentence on January 20, with possible penalties ranging from 10 years to life imprisonment or even the death penalty.

During the verdict announcement, Roy proclaimed his innocence, claiming, "I didn't do anything. Everyone did it together. If I were guilty, the Rudraksha around my neck would have fallen off." His statement has further fueled speculation about other potential perpetrators being involved.

The victim's family expressed their disappointment with the CBI investigation, alleging that the main culprits remain at large. "We lost everything when we lost our daughter. If the real culprits are punished, only then will her soul rest in peace," the family stated.

Protesting junior doctors and members of the public echoed similar sentiments, accusing the investigation of being incomplete and biased. Demonstrators took to the streets of Kolkata, demanding accountability and justice for all involved in the crime.

The tragic incident occurred on August 9, 2024, when the body of a female doctor was discovered in the seminar hall of RG Kar Medical College. Initial investigations by Kolkata Police led to the arrest of Sanjay Roy on August 10. Subsequently, the case was handed over to the CBI following public outcry and a directive from the court.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee visited the victim's family on August 12, assuring them of justice. However, public confidence in the investigation began to wane as allegations of cover-ups emerged.

The protests following the verdict highlight deep mistrust in the judicial process and demand a comprehensive investigation to uncover any additional perpetrators. Activists, doctors, and citizens continue to call for transparency and justice, emphasizing that the fight is far from over.

As the court prepares to announce Sanjay Roy’s sentence on January 20, the case remains a stark reminder of the challenges in addressing violence against women and ensuring accountability in high-profile cases.

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