The much awaited verdict in the RG Kar Medical College case involving the rape and murder of the young female doctor is set to be announced on January 18th. The Sealdah Court will deliver its decision at 2:30 PM marking the conclusion of the judicial process after five months of intense legal proceedings.

The case which shook the medical community and the public alike began its trial on November 11^th 2024. Over two months multiple hearings took place with lawyers presenting arguments on behalf of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) the victim's family and the defence.

CBI’s legal counsel has sought the death penalty for the accused Sanjay Roy labelling the case as one of the "rarest of rare" crimes. The West Bengal state government has also supported the demand for the highest punishment. Meanwhile the defence also submitted counterarguments and filed affidavits in Sanjay’s support.

From 11^th November till now a total of 52 witnesses have testified in the trial. However the victim’s family lawyer expressed dissatisfaction with the investigation process and claiming it lacked thoroughness. Despite these concerns the judicial process continued in a closed courtroom culminating in the announcement of the verdict date.

Background

The incident took place at the RG Kar Medical College, where the accused allegedly committed the heinous crime. Following the tragedy protests erupted across the state and shake many with calls for justice for the victim. The case was later handed over to the CBI for better investigation.

CBI presented a detailed charge sheet against the accused Sanjay Roy including substantial evidence to support their claim. However critics including activists and some members of the medical community have questioned the integrity of the investigation.

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Family's Perspective

Outside of the court the victim’s family expressed hope for justice. “We demand the strictest punishment for those who involved. Our written appeal already has been submitted to the court. We believe the judiciary will consider every aspect carefully,” said the family lawyer.

Public Reaction and Ongoing Protests

Protests against the handling of the case continue in Kolkata with demonstrators questioning about CBI’s investigative process. Some have alleged that the accused Sanjay Roy is being unfairly targeted as a scapegoat. Despite all these claims the court is expected to deliver a fair and just verdict.