NEW DELHI: In a high-profile and deeply troubling case, Kabita Sarkar, a 52-year-old lawyer, has been appointed to defend Sanjay Roy, the accused in the RG Kar rape-murder case. Sarkar, who has been practicing law for 25 years, faces one of the most challenging cases of her career, with the Sealdah court appointing her after no other lawyer was willing to take on the defense.
Who Is Kabita Sarkar?
Kabita Sarkar, a graduate in law from Hooghly Mohsin College, began her legal career focusing on civil cases at the Alipore court. Her career took a significant turn when she transitioned to criminal law, becoming a SALSA (Subordinate Advocate Legal Services Association) lawyer in February 2023. By June 2023, she had moved to the Sealdah court, where she now practices.
Sarkar’s decision to take on the defense of Sanjay Roy reflects her steadfast belief in the principle of justice through court trials rather than pre-trial judgments. She emphasizes the importance of every individual’s right to a fair trial, including those accused of heinous crimes. In a bid to ensure a robust defense, Sarkar has requested the assistance of her senior, Sourav Banerjee, during the proceedings.
Reason for Taking the Case
Sarkar’s decision to take on this contentious case stems from her commitment to the judicial process and the belief that every accused person deserves a fair trial. She asserts that justice must be served through proper legal channels, and that includes defending individuals accused of serious crimes. Her approach is driven by the principle of “innocent until proven guilty,” which she believes is fundamental to the justice system.
Views on Punishment
In the realm of criminal justice, Sarkar is known for her stance against capital punishment. She advocates for life imprisonment as the maximum penalty, arguing that it provides offenders with an opportunity to reflect on their crimes. This perspective underscores her belief in the potential for rehabilitation and the importance of allowing a person to come to terms with their actions.
The RG Kar Hospital Case
The case in question involves the brutal rape and murder of a 31-year-old postgraduate trainee doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College on August 9, 2024. The incident has sparked national outrage due to its horrific nature. The victim was found in a semi-nude state, and the accused, Sanjay Roy, a hospital staffer, reportedly gained access to the seminar hall where the crime occurred while the victim was alone.
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is conducting an extensive probe into the case. Preliminary reports from the autopsy have revealed gruesome details, and the CBI’s psychoanalytic profile of Roy describes him as a “sexual pervert with animal instincts.” The psychoanalysts who assessed Roy found him emotionally detached, and his statements have been cross-referenced with forensic evidence.
Current Status and Investigation
The CBI has confirmed that technical and scientific evidence supports Roy’s presence at the crime scene, although results of DNA tests have yet to be disclosed. The ongoing investigation aims to provide a comprehensive account of the events surrounding the crime and establish the full extent of Roy’s involvement.
Kabita Sarkar’s appointment to defend Sanjay Roy in this high-stakes case highlights her dedication to ensuring that justice is served through the legal system, regardless of public sentiment or the nature of the crime. As the trial progresses, her role will be crucial in navigating the complex legal and ethical issues involved, ensuring that the accused receives a fair trial while upholding the principles of justice and legal integrity.