Man Convicted in Shocking Rape and Murder of Trainee Doctor in India

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A court in Kolkata, India, has found Sanjay Roy guilty of the rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor, a crime that has outraged the nation and sparked widespread protests. The incident occurred at the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in August 2024, where the victim, who remains unnamed for legal reasons, was discovered dead after a 36-hour shift.

The verdict was announced by Judge Anirban Das, who stated that sentencing will take place on Monday, with options ranging from life in prison to the death penalty. Roy, a hospital volunteer, has maintained his innocence, claiming he was framed.

The mother of the victim expressed concerns that a lenient sentence would erode public faith in the Indian legal system. The case has highlighted ongoing issues regarding violence against healthcare workers and the treatment of women in India. Following the incident, doctors and medical students took to the streets in mass protests, demanding justice and improved safety measures.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), which took over the case from local authorities amid accusations of mishandling, previously reported that Roy attacked the doctor while she was asleep. A post-mortem examination revealed she had been strangled and had sustained defensive injuries, indicating she fought back against her assailant.

In India, violence against women remains a significant issue, with over 31,000 rapes reported in 2022 alone. Activists emphasize that many cases go unreported due to social stigma and a lack of confidence in law enforcement. The public outcry following this high-profile incident is reminiscent of the 2012 Delhi gang rape, which led to changes in sexual assault laws in the country.

The court's decision will be closely monitored as the nation grapples with these pressing concerns about safety and justice.

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