A court in Kolkata convicted 33-year-old Sanjoy Roy of raping and murdering a trainee doctor at a government hospital last August. The crime triggered outrage and nationwide protests, with many people and medical professionals demanding stronger security at hospitals.
Police discovered the victim’s body in a seminar room at the hospital. In response, doctors across the state organised strikes, calling for better safety measures. Thousands of citizens joined the protests to show solidarity with the medical community and the victim’s grieving family.
Court delivers swift Verdict
Judge Anirban Das announced the guilty verdict after a fast-tracked trial that lasted slightly over a week. The court will issue Roy’s sentence on Monday. While Roy denied the charges, he insisted that someone had framed him.
As police escorted Roy to court, protesters gathered outside and shouted demands for the death penalty. Many chanted, “Hang him, hang him,” voicing their anger at the brutal nature of the crime.
Family demands justice
The victim’s family called for the harshest possible punishment. Her mother urged the court to uphold public faith in the judicial system. She said, “The public will lose trust in the judiciary if he doesn’t receive the strictest punishment.” Her father added, “He cruelly ended her life. He should face the same fate.”
The crime led to widespread protests by medical professionals throughout West Bengal. As a result, the Supreme Court formed a task force to recommend better security measures in public hospitals nationwide.
Broader consequences
Police arrested Roy one day after discovering the victim’s body. Although the swift action reassured some people, the case also brought back memories of the 2012 Delhi gang rape, which had ignited nationwide outrage and demands for reforms.
At a protest march, the victim’s father shared his pain, saying, “We are devastated. My daughter’s soul will not find peace until she gets justice.”
As Roy awaits sentencing, the case remains a stark reminder of the urgent need for improved protections for women and better safety enforcement in public spaces.
