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Kolkata’s RG Kar Case: What Is Quantum of Punishment And How Courts Decide Penalties For Crimes Like Rape And Murder

The RG Kar Medical College case highlights how courts determine the quantum of punishment for heinous crimes like rape and murder.

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Kolkata’s RG Kar Case: What Is Quantum of Punishment And How Courts Decide Penalties For Crimes Like Rape And Murder


A CBI court on Saturday convicted Sanjay Roy, a civic volunteer with Kolkata Police, for the brutal rape and murder of a trainee doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital last year—an incident that sparked widespread protests and national outrage. Roy was arrested a day after the heinous crime on August 9, 2024, and charged with multiple offenses under laws that allow for the harshest penalties.

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The gruesome nature of the crime and its impact on society have brought the concept of the quantum of punishment into sharp focus. Courts face the critical responsibility of determining appropriate penalties in such cases, balancing justice for the victim and societal deterrence with legal frameworks.

What Is Quantum of Punishment?

The term quantum of punishment refers to the degree or extent of the penalty a court imposes for a crime. It represents the spectrum of punishment permitted by law, ranging from the minimum prescribed penalty to the maximum. For example, in cases involving rape or murder, the quantum of punishment can range from life imprisonment to the death penalty, depending on the crime’s severity and circumstances.

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The concept underscores the flexibility courts have to evaluate individual cases. While the law provides guidelines, the final sentence reflects the judge’s assessment of the crime’s nature, the intent of the accused, and the societal impact.

The Case Against Sanjay Roy

In this case, Sanjay Roy was charged under the following sections:

  • Section 64 (rape): Maximum punishment of life imprisonment.
  • Section 66 (causing death): Sentence can extend to life imprisonment or death penalty.
  • Section 103 (murder): Death penalty or life imprisonment as the maximum punishment.

After reviewing the evidence, witness statements, and arguments presented, the judge declared Roy guilty, stating, “You are guilty. You must be punished.” The sentencing, where the quantum of punishment will be announced, is scheduled for Monday.

How Courts Decide Sentences

When determining sentences in cases like rape and murder, courts weigh multiple factors, including:

  1. Severity of the Crime: The brutality and intent behind the act, as well as its consequences on the victim and society.
  2. Impact on Society: Public sentiment and the broader implications of the crime often influence decisions, particularly in cases that shock public conscience.
  3. Victim’s Suffering: The degree of harm and trauma endured by the victim are crucial considerations.
  4. Accused’s Circumstances: The intent, criminal history, and behavior of the convict during the trial are evaluated.

For crimes that provoke widespread outrage, courts also consider the role of punishment in setting a deterrent example for society.

The Victim’s Family and Public Reactions

The victim’s father broke down in the courtroom after the verdict, expressing his gratitude to the court: “I kept full faith in you. Thanks to you for honoring our trust.” This sentiment resonates with a society that demands swift and stringent justice in such cases.

The incident also triggered protests across the nation, demanding accountability and justice for the victim. It has underscored the importance of judicial efficiency and stringent punishment in addressing heinous crimes.

Sanjay Roy’s conviction is a significant step in delivering justice, but it also highlights the ongoing need for judicial reforms, robust legal mechanisms, and societal accountability to prevent such crimes. The final sentencing on Monday will determine whether Roy faces life imprisonment or the death penalty, bringing some closure to a grieving family and an outraged nation.

ALSO READ: What Kolkata Court Said About RG Kar Rape-Murder Convict Sanjay Roy


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