Kolkata (West Bengal) [India]: West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose emphasized the need for a proactive approach to combating crimes against women, asserting that severe punishments alone cannot eradicate such atrocities. His comments came in response to the life sentence handed down to Sanjay Roy, the accused in the RG Kar hospital rape and murder case.
In a video statement, Bose remarked, “The court’s verdict is now loud and clear. That has to be respected in letter and spirit. This is not merely a question of crime and punishment. There is more to it. Punishment, no matter how severe, doesn’t end the crime in total. The rising incidents of rape, assault, and murder are alarming and reflect a deeper societal sickness.”
The Governor called for a “robust and proactive policy to combat these atrocities” and underscored the importance of ensuring women’s safety, particularly in sensitive settings like medical institutions.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also weighed in on the verdict, expressing dissatisfaction over the life sentence and reiterating her demand for the death penalty. Addressing the media in Malda, she said, “We have always demanded capital punishment and continue to stand by it. This is the court’s decision, and I can’t say much about it. However, had the case been handled by Kolkata Police, we would have ensured the death penalty long back.”
Banerjee highlighted past cases where Kolkata Police ensured convictions leading to capital punishment within 54-60 days. She stated that the RG Kar case deserved similar treatment and indicated that her administration would have pushed for the highest punishment.
Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar also expressed dissatisfaction, calling for a more in-depth investigation into the case. Speaking to ANI, he said, “We wanted the highest punishment for Sanjay Roy. Being an elected representative, I can’t comment against the court verdict. However, the public does not believe that only one person is involved in the RG Kar rape-murder case. Sanjay Roy has claimed that police and other individuals were also involved. This warrants deeper scrutiny.”
The RG Kar case involved the rape and murder of a trainee doctor whose body was discovered on August 9 in the hospital’s seminar room. The case has sparked outrage across West Bengal, with demands for stronger measures to protect women and hold perpetrators accountable.
This incident has reignited discussions about the need for systemic reforms to ensure justice and the safety of women in vulnerable environments.