RG Kar convict Sanjay Roy claims innocence: ‘I was forced to sign…’

Sanjay Roy, convicted in the RG Kar Medical College rape and murder case, pleaded his innocence before sentencing on Monday. He claimed he was tortured and forced to sign documents. “I am innocent. I did not commit rape or murder. They made me sign whatever they wanted,” Roy told the court.

Judge Anirban Das of the Additional District and Sessions Court convicted Roy under Sections 64, 66, and 103(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The court will announce his punishment at 2:45 PM. The CBI lawyer demanded the highest penalty, saying, “We seek the maximum punishment to uphold public faith in justice.”

This case, involving the rape and murder of a postgraduate trainee doctor on August 9, 2024, sparked national outrage. Protests erupted, criticizing Kolkata Police for lapses in the initial investigation. The Calcutta High Court later handed the case to the CBI. The trial began on November 12 and concluded on January 9, recording testimonies from 50 witnesses.

The judge stated that the CBI had proven all charges, though Roy maintained he was framed. The victim’s parents expressed relief at the conviction but insisted more perpetrators were involved. They urged authorities to pursue further investigations.

The ruling Trinamool Congress welcomed the verdict, praising Kolkata Police’s initial efforts. However, the opposition accused the state government of protecting influential figures linked to the case.

This high-profile crime highlighted lapses in local investigations, the need for accountability, and the public demand for justice.