Junior Doctors Demand Death Penalty, Political Leaders Divided Over Court’s Life Imprisonment Sentence
Kolkata (West Bengal), January 20: Outrage continues in the aftermath of the RG Kar rape-murder case verdict as junior doctors staged a protest outside the Sealdah Court on Monday, demanding stricter punishment for the convicted, Sanjay Roy. The protestors vowed to appeal to a higher court to secure a harsher judgment.
“We wanted a strict and exemplary punishment. This is not enough. We will move to higher courts seeking a stricter verdict,” a junior doctor asserted during the demonstration.
CM Mamata Banerjee Criticizes Verdict
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also expressed dissatisfaction, stating that the Kolkata Police could have ensured a death penalty if the case had remained under their jurisdiction.
“I learned about the sentencing from the media. We have always demanded capital punishment, and we continue to stand by it. Had this case been under our purview, we would have ensured the death penalty long back,” Banerjee said during an address in Malda.
Political Reactions Vary
Congress leader Salman Khurshid welcomed the court’s decision, calling it a step towards justice and a warning to potential offenders.
“This judgment conveys a strong message. The Court acted swiftly with an investigation and delivered its verdict in a short time. It’s apt and should be welcomed,” Khurshid stated.
However, Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar expressed dissatisfaction, hinting at possible involvement of others in the crime.
“We wanted the highest punishment. The people of West Bengal don’t believe only one person was involved. Sanjay Roy’s claims about others, including police personnel, need a deeper investigation,” Majumdar said.
Case Background
The RG Kar case involves the brutal rape and murder of a trainee doctor whose body was discovered on August 9, 2024, in the seminar room of RG Kar Medical College. Sanjay Roy, a civic volunteer, was sentenced to life imprisonment and fined ₹50,000 by the Sealdah Civil and Criminal Court on Monday.
The verdict has sparked widespread debate, with many, including CM Banerjee, emphasizing the need for stronger judicial outcomes in cases of such heinous crimes.