The Sessions Court in Kolkata sentenced Sanjay Roy to life imprisonment for the brutal rape and murder of a doctor at R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital. The judgment was delivered by Additional District and Sessions Judge, Sealdah, Anirban Das, who, while acknowledging the gravity of the crime, stated that it did not qualify as a “rarest of the rare” case, thereby ruling out the death penalty.

Court’s Decision and Compensation for Victim’s Family

During the proceedings, the court thoroughly examined the circumstances of the crime before delivering its verdict. While pronouncing the sentence, Judge Anirban Das stated that although the offense was heinous, it did not meet the threshold required to impose the death penalty. Instead, the court sentenced the accused, Sanjay Roy, to life imprisonment. Additionally, the court directed that the victim’s parents be compensated with ₹17 lakh. A fine of ₹50,000 was also imposed on the convict as part of the judgment.

Reactions to the Verdict

The verdict has sparked mixed reactions, with many questioning whether justice has been fully served. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her dissatisfaction with the court’s decision, stating that the punishment awarded to the convict was not stringent enough. Her remarks reflect the sentiments of many who expected a harsher penalty for such a grievous crime.

The case has drawn significant public attention, with calls for stricter punishment in cases of violent crimes against women. Legal experts and activists continue to debate whether the court’s decision aligns with the principles of justice and deterrence.

Case Background and Significance

The case involves the shocking rape and murder of a female doctor at R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital, an incident that sent shockwaves across the city. The prosecution argued for the harshest punishment, emphasizing the brutality of the crime. However, the court ultimately decided that life imprisonment was the appropriate sentence under the circumstances.

As the legal battle concludes in the Sessions Court, there is a possibility that the verdict may be challenged in a higher court. The case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice in crimes against women and the debate over what constitutes a “rarest of the rare” case deserving the death penalty.