A court in Kolkata has convicted Sanjay Roy, a hospital volunteer, for the rape and murder of a trainee doctor. The Indian doctor rape and murder committed in August 2024 shocked the nation, spurred protests and raised concerns about the safety of healthcare workers.
The victim, a 31-year-old doctor, was attacked at the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital after completing a 36-hour shift. Her half-naked, injured body was found near the seminar hall podium by a colleague.
According to investigators, Roy entered the hospital intoxicated and found her sleeping alone. Arrested the next day, Roy continues to claim innocence, stating that he was framed. Doctors, students, and women’s rights advocates launched nationwide protests, including the “Reclaim the Night” march on August 14th, demanding justice.
Protesters called for improved safety measures in healthcare facilities and harsher punishments for violence against women. The victim’s parents filed a petition with the Calcutta High Court in December seeking a fresh probe, arguing that Roy could not have acted alone.
Judge Anirban Das announced that Roy could face life imprisonment or the death penalty, with sentencing scheduled for Monday. The victim’s mother expressed a loss of faith in the judicial system if Roy received anything less than the death penalty.
However, after allegations of mishandling Kolkata police transferred the case to Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Activists argue this case highlights the widespread violence against healthcare workers, with a 2017 survey revealing over 75% of Indian doctors have faced violence.
Meanwhile, the case reignites discussions on sexual violence in India, where official data shows over 31,000 rape cases reported in 2022. The Indian doctor rape and murder case serves as a grim reminder of persistent systemic failures and urgent calls for reform.
