Sanjay Roy, convicted of raping and murdering a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College in Kolkata, received a life sentence until death. On January 20, a Sealdah court imposed this punishment, along with a ₹50,000 fine.

Court Orders ₹17 Lakh Compensation

Judge Anirban Das, from the Sealdah additional district and sessions court, ordered the state to pay ₹17 lakh to the victim’s family. Despite the seriousness of the crime, the judge ruled it did not qualify as a "rarest of the rare" case, which would warrant the death penalty.

Heavy Security at Sentencing

Authorities brought Roy to court under tight security. At 12:30 pm, Judge Das heard Roy’s statement before announcing the sentence.

Roy Declares Innocence

Roy claimed innocence, saying he was falsely implicated and forced into signing confessions. He stated, "I have not done anything, neither rape nor murder. I am innocent."

Lawyers Present Their Cases

Roy’s lawyer argued for his reformation, while the victim’s family lawyer pushed for the death penalty, calling it the most appropriate punishment.

Conviction Under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita

The court convicted Roy under Sections 64, 66, and 103(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). These sections cover rape, causing death, and murder, with penalties ranging from 10 years to life imprisonment or the death penalty.

Reactions from Politicians and Public

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee withheld comments until the verdict but had previously supported the death penalty. The victim's parents trusted the judiciary but criticized the CBI for not arresting other suspects.

Details of the Crime and Investigation

The trainee doctor’s body was found on August 9, sparking nationwide protests. Roy was arrested the next day, and the case was transferred to the CBI for further investigation.