(Image source from: Newindianexpress.com)

The Kolkata court sentenced the convicted Sanjay Roy to life in prison for the rape and murder of a 34-year-old doctor at the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The court determined that the case did not meet the 'rarest of the rare' criteria for the death penalty. The court ordered the West Bengal government to pay Rs 17 lakh to the victim's parents, although they stated they did not want compensation but rather justice. The judge clarified that the payment was a legal requirement and the family could use the money as they wished. Roy was convicted under the relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code for the crimes of rape and murder. During the sentencing hearing, Roy maintained his innocence and claimed he had been framed.

The judge was tasked with delivering justice. They had heard the evidence and arguments from both sides for three hours. The charges against the accused had been proven. The judge then asked the accused for their views on the punishment. The prosecution, including the CBI and the victim's family, had demanded the death penalty, arguing that this was an extremely rare and serious case. The defense lawyer had cited Supreme Court guidelines on the death penalty, and the judge had asked the counsel to list these guidelines. The court area had been heavily secured by the police to prevent any incidents after the sentencing. Protesters gathered near the court, alleging that the accused alone could not have committed the crime and that others should also face justice. The victim's parents expressed dissatisfaction with the CBI's investigation.

The perpetrator of the crime has not been held accountable. Despite only one person being uninvolved, the CBI has failed to arrest the others. Her mother stated that such criminals do not deserve to live if we are to stop future crimes in society. The 34-year-old doctor, a postgraduate trainee at the hospital, was working the night shift on the day of the incident. The following day, she was discovered lifeless in a seminar room within the hospital. This tragic event ignited nationwide demonstrations, prompting doctors to cease their duties for several days as they called for improved workplace safety measures.