National Desk
20 January
Journalist
Sandeep Dhand
Kolkata: Sealdah Court Issues Landmark Verdict
In a highly publicized case, the Sealdah Court on Saturday sentenced Sanjay Roy, a former civic volunteer with Kolkata Police, to life imprisonment till his natural death. Roy was convicted of the rape and murder of a trainee female doctor at a medical college and hospital in Kolkata.
Court Rejects CBI’s Demand for Death Penalty
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had sought the death penalty for Roy, arguing that the case fell under the rarest of rare categories. However, Additional District and Sessions Judge Anirban Das ruled that the crime did not meet the criteria for awarding capital punishment.
“The crime does not fall under the ‘rarest of rare’ category,” said Judge Das. Instead, the court handed Roy a life sentence, emphasizing that he would remain in prison until his natural death.
Compensation of ₹17 Lakh Ordered for Victim’s Family
The court also directed the state government to pay ₹17 lakh as compensation to the victim’s family. This decision was made in recognition of the immense loss and suffering endured by the victim’s parents.
Roy Pleads Innocence
Before the sentencing, Roy maintained his innocence, claiming he was falsely implicated. “I am innocent. I have done nothing wrong. I have been framed,” he told the court. Despite his claims, the overwhelming evidence presented during the trial led to his conviction under sections 64, 66, and 103(1) of the Indian Penal Code.
Tight Security at Sealdah Court
Anticipating potential disruptions, over 500 police personnel were deployed around the Sealdah Court complex. Sanjay Roy was brought to the court under heavy security at around 10:15 a.m. to prevent any untoward incidents.
Victim’s Family Expresses Disappointment with CBI Probe
The victim’s parents expressed dissatisfaction with the CBI’s investigation, alleging that other conspirators involved in the crime were not brought to justice. The grieving mother stated, “This crime involved more than one person. The CBI failed to bring the others to account. Such criminals have no right to live if we are to prevent future atrocities.”
Public Reaction and Protests
The verdict sparked outrage and protests in the medical fraternity. Junior doctors’ associations had planned demonstrations near the court, but Kolkata Police denied permission, citing security concerns.
Sister of the Convict Speaks Out
Sanjay Roy’s sister admitted that the evidence against him was undeniable. “The evidence is stacked against him. If he receives the death penalty, what can we do?” she said, refraining from defending her brother’s actions.
Political Reactions
The case also drew political reactions. CPI(M) leader Vikas Ranjan Bhattacharya criticized the CBI for its handling of the investigation, stating, “The investigation was not conducted properly.” BJP state president Sukanta Majumdar alleged that crucial evidence had been destroyed before the CBI took over the case, making it difficult to gather substantial proof.
The Crime and Arrest
The incident occurred on August 9 of the previous year. The victim, a postgraduate trainee doctor, was brutally raped and murdered at her hostel. Sanjay Roy was arrested the following day and has been in custody since. The case was later handed over to the CBI, which built a strong case against Roy.
Hope for Justice Prevails
While the victim’s family acknowledged the court’s verdict, they reiterated their call for a more thorough investigation to identify all those responsible. “We trust the judiciary, but this is not complete justice,” they said.
The case has sparked widespread debate on women’s safety and the need for more robust mechanisms to prevent such heinous crimes in the future. The court’s judgment, though not entirely satisfying for the victim’s family, is seen as a significant step in holding perpetrators accountable.