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Man Found Guilty of Rape and Murder of Doctor in Kolkata, Trial Sparks Protests
A Kolkata court has found Sanjoy Roy guilty of raping and murdering a doctor last year, sparking protests and hospital strikes across India. The victim’s family and protesters demand the death penalty.
ND
by News Desk
2025-01-18
Man Found Guilty of Rape and Murder of Doctor in Kolkata, Trial Sparks Protests

A court in Kolkata has convicted Sanjoy Roy, a 33-year-old civic volunteer at a government hospital, for the rape and murder of a trainee doctor. The heinous crime, which occurred in August of last year, sent shockwaves through India and reignited nationwide discussions about violence against women. The victim’s bloodied body was discovered in a hospital seminar room, further highlighting the systemic issue of safety in India’s medical facilities.

The victim's brutal killing led to widespread protests, with doctors across India, particularly in Kolkata, demanding enhanced security measures in government hospitals. The protests, which were joined by citizens from various walks of life, called for justice for the victim and greater protection for healthcare professionals. The fast-tracked trial of Sanjoy Roy was a rare example of speed in India’s otherwise slow legal process.

Roy has consistently maintained his innocence, claiming he was framed for the crime. However, the court found him guilty of both rape and murder, and the presiding judge, Anirban Das, announced that the sentencing would occur on Monday. The verdict was met with anger and chants of “Hang him, hang him” from protesters gathered outside the courthouse, who demanded the death penalty for Roy.

The victim's family, including her parents, expressed their devastation after the verdict. Her mother, speaking out in the courtroom, stated that the common man would lose faith in the judiciary if Roy did not receive the death penalty, while her father emphasized the brutality of the crime and echoed the demand for justice.

The murder of the doctor has drawn comparisons to the infamous 2012 gang rape and murder of a young woman in Delhi, which also sparked massive protests across the country. The protests over both incidents have highlighted the growing concern over women’s safety in India.

In response to the widespread anger, India’s Supreme Court established a national task force to review and propose measures to improve security in government hospitals. As the case unfolds, the country remains on edge, awaiting the final sentencing and hoping for a signal of stronger protections for women and healthcare workers.

 
Tagged:

Kolkata

JusticeForWomen

DoctorMurder

IndianJustice
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