AlinaRG Kar rape and murder case Update
Missing CBI Lawyer in RG Kar Case
Introduction
The RG Kar rape and murder case has been one of the most closely followed legal battles in West Bengal, capturing public and media attention. The case took a dramatic turn when the accused, Sanjoy Roy, nearly secured bail due to the absence of a CBI lawyer during a critical court hearing. This incident has raised serious questions about the Central Bureau of Investigation‘s handling of the case, which involves the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital.
Courtroom Drama Unfolds
The Sealdah Court was filled to capacity on Friday afternoon as journalists and lawyers awaited the hearing. Accused Sanjoy Roy, who had been arrested by the Kolkata Police as a civic volunteer, was virtually presented before Acting Assistant Chief Judicial Magistrate Pamela Gupta from Presidency jail. His state-appointed lawyer, Kabita Sarkar, sought bail, claiming Roy’s innocence and emphasizing his lack of a criminal record. However, there was an unexpected silence from the CBI side, as no representative from the agency was present to contest the bail plea.
CBI’s Absence Causes Stir
Magistrate Pamela Gupta, visibly displeased with the CBI’s absence, expressed frustration over the agency’s lethargy in handling such a high-profile case. “Why this lethargy? It’s very unfortunate!” Gupta remarked, highlighting the gravity of the situation. The CBI had been tasked with the investigation on August 13, following a directive from the Calcutta High Court, which had criticized the Kolkata Police for their lackadaisical approach. The absence of a CBI lawyer at this critical juncture raised eyebrows and led to a tense atmosphere in the courtroom.
Sanjoy Roy’s Bail Plea
Kabita Sarkar, Roy’s lawyer, argued that her client had no prior legal issues and had maintained his innocence throughout. She pointed out the slow progress of the CBI’s investigation, arguing that there was no substantial evidence against Roy to justify his continued detention. Without a CBI lawyer present to counter these claims, Magistrate Gupta asked if anyone from the agency was available to provide updates on the investigation’s status. An assistant-rank investigator, who was present, was instructed to contact the absent lawyer immediately.
CBI Lawyer Arrives Late
As the clock ticked past 4:30 PM, tensions escalated when the assistant investigator informed the court that the CBI lawyer would arrive in 10 minutes. Finally, at 4:59 PM, nearly an hour after the hearing began, CBI counsel Deepak Poria arrived and opposed the bail plea. Poria cited the pending opinions of AIIMS experts on forensic findings as grounds for continuing Roy’s detention. Consequently, the magistrate extended Roy’s judicial custody for another 14 days, preventing his release.
Political Repercussions and Public Outcry
The incident has intensified the ongoing political turmoil in West Bengal, with various parties seizing the opportunity to critique the handling of the case. The BJP has been vocal in demanding the resignation of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, accusing the state government of failing to ensure justice for the victim. Meanwhile, the ruling Trinamool Congress has criticized the CBI’s apparent lapses, with Trinamool leader Kunal Ghosh condemning the agency for its absence during the bail hearing.
Ghosh remarked, “Sanjoy Roy is the only accused person arrested by the Kolkata Police. Is the CBI delaying the case? When the accused is produced virtually in court, the CBI is missing. What do opposition parties BJP, CPIM, and Congress have to say?” His statements reflect the broader frustration and suspicion surrounding the CBI’s commitment to the investigation.
Opposition’s Vigilance and Public Response
Leader of the Opposition, Suvendu Adhikari, also weighed in, addressing a rally and assuring the public of continued vigilance over the case. “Our eyes are open, and we are keeping a watch if a person’s actions are suspicious. We will take action, don’t worry,” Adhikari said, suggesting that opposition parties would not let the matter go unchallenged.
The RG Kar rape and murder case has not only highlighted the legal complexities involved in high-stakes investigations but also underscored the political ramifications of perceived lapses by law enforcement agencies. With public sentiment demanding swift justice for the victim, the focus remains on the CBI to ensure that the investigation proceeds transparently and efficiently.
