A court in India has sentenced Sanjay Roy, a hospital volunteer, to life in prison for the rape and murder of a 31-year-old junior doctor in Kolkata. The crime, which occurred last August, sparked widespread outrage and protests across the country. The victim's identity has not been disclosed due to Indian law, but she was found half-naked and severely injured in the seminar hall of RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The autopsy report indicated that she had been strangled and showed injury marks consistent with a struggle.

The case was investigated by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), which sought the death penalty for Roy. However, the judge ruled against this, stating that the case did not qualify as a "rarest-of-rare" crime. Roy has maintained his innocence, claiming that he was being "falsely implicated" and alleging that others were involved in the crime. The judge dismissed these claims, asserting that the court had already found him guilty on all charges. The victim's family expressed shock and disappointment at the sentence, stating that they wanted Roy to be executed.

The case has raised concerns about the safety of healthcare workers in India, especially women. Doctors in Kolkata went on strike for several weeks, demanding action against Roy and holding officials accountable for delays in the investigation. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also expressed dissatisfaction with the sentence, commenting that "such criminals should be hanged." This case has underscored the need for better protection and support for healthcare workers in India amid the widespread outrage and protests that followed the crime.

The sentence has faced criticism from some politicians and social media users who believe it is too lenient. Conversely, others have welcomed it, arguing that it reflects the seriousness with which the Indian justice system addresses crimes against women. The verdict is expected to be appealed in a higher court, and the outcome will be closely monitored by the Indian public.