RG Kar Case: In a landmark decision, the Kolkata court delivers justice in the R.G. Kar Medical College case, sentencing Sanjay Roy to life imprisonment
Kolkata, January 20, 2025 – The Sealdah Civil and Criminal Court in Kolkata has sentenced Sanjay Roy to life imprisonment for the rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. In addition to the life sentence, the court has directed the state to compensate the victim’s family with ₹17 lakh. This judgment comes as a relief to the victim’s family and the broader public, which had demanded swift and severe justice.
The horrific incident, which took place within the premises of one of Kolkata’s leading medical colleges, shook the entire nation and prompted widespread protests. Medical professionals across the country organized strikes, calling for safer workplace environments and justice for their fellow colleague. The court’s ruling, while seen as a step forward, has also reignited debates about stricter punishments for crimes of this nature.
Life Sentence Instead of Death Penalty RG Kar Case

During the sentencing, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), which had taken over the case, had strongly advocated for the death penalty. However, Chief Justice Amitava Sanyal determined that the crime, although heinous, did not qualify under the “rarest of rare” doctrine required for capital punishment.
The court clarified that the life sentence reflects the gravity of the crime while adhering to established legal principles. Justice Sanyal stated, “The punishment ensures that the accused faces the consequences of his actions for the rest of his life, serving as both a deterrent and a means to deliver justice to the victim and her family.”
The judgment highlighted the importance of balancing judicial integrity with public demand, ensuring that justice is not swayed solely by emotional appeals.
Family’s Reaction: Mixed Feelings Amid Justice
The victim’s family, present during the court proceedings, expressed a mixture of grief, relief, and lingering disappointment. The victim’s mother, holding back tears, said, “No punishment can bring my daughter back, but we are grateful that justice has been served to some extent.”

The victim’s father, however, voiced his hope for harsher penalties. “We believed that the death penalty was the right punishment for such a heinous crime. While we respect the court’s decision, we will always feel the void left by our daughter,” he added.
The family also emphasized the need for systemic reforms to prevent such incidents from happening again and urged authorities to prioritize the safety of healthcare professionals.
Protests by Medical Professionals Sparked Nationwide Debate
The incident led to an outpouring of anger and solidarity from the medical community. Doctors and healthcare workers across the nation staged protests and strikes, demanding stronger safety measures in hospitals and justice for the victim.
At RG Kar Medical College, medical students and staff organized candlelight vigils and marches, drawing attention to the lack of adequate security measures in public institutions. “This tragedy could have been avoided if proper safety protocols were in place. We work tirelessly to save lives, but who will protect ours?” questioned one protesting doctor.
These protests also garnered attention from national leaders and organizations. The Supreme Court of India took suo motu cognizance of the case and criticized the state government and hospital administration for failing to ensure the safety of their employees. The court’s intervention led to the establishment of a national task force aimed at drafting and implementing safety guidelines for medical professionals.

The RG Kar Medical College case has sparked a nationwide conversation about the need for safer environments in public institutions, especially those catering to healthcare professionals. Many experts have pointed out that the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital failed to implement adequate security measures, leaving staff and students vulnerable. The tragic incident has pushed authorities to consider stricter regulations, and many are urging the central government to prioritize reforms in institutions like RG Kar Medical College to prevent future tragedies. This case has not only left an indelible mark on the victim’s family but also on the medical community, which continues to demand justice and accountability.
Shocking Allegations of Evidence Tampering
The investigation revealed shocking allegations against Sandip Ghosh, the former principal of RG Kar Medical College. The CBI accused Ghosh of deliberately delaying critical procedures, including the filing of the First Information Report (FIR) and the victim’s death declaration. These delays, according to investigators, led to the loss of vital evidence.
Ghosh has since been charged with obstruction of justice, a move welcomed by the victim’s family and activists. However, many have called for a deeper investigation into the hospital’s administration and its role in the case.
“The truth must come out. Those responsible for any form of negligence or cover-up should face the consequences,” said a spokesperson for the All India Medical Students’ Association.
The verdict in the RG Kar case is a reminder of the urgent need for justice in incidents of gender-based violence. Legal experts have praised the court’s swift handling of the RG Kar Medical College case, stating that it sets a precedent for similar cases in the future. As discussions continue, the government must address the larger systemic failures that led to such a horrifying crime within the premises of RG Kar Medical College. Ensuring that institutions like RG Kar Medical College implement robust security protocols will be critical in restoring faith in public safety and justice systems.
A Verdict That Sets a Precedent
The sentencing of Sanjay Roy is more than just a legal decision; it is a message to society about the importance of ensuring justice for victims of gender-based violence. The case has not only highlighted the vulnerabilities faced by women in the workplace but has also brought attention to the broader issue of institutional accountability.
As the curtains close on this tragic chapter, activists and legal experts hope that the verdict will inspire stricter laws and better implementation of safety measures across various sectors. The RG Kar case has served as a wake-up call for both policymakers and citizens, emphasizing the urgent need for systemic change.
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