Sanjay Roy, arrested in connection with the brutal incident that shocked the medical fraternity, was brought before the Sealdah Court earlier this week. The CBI had sought permission to perform the narco analysis test, a forensic procedure where drugs are used to induce a hypnotic state in suspects, potentially leading them to reveal information that may be withheld under normal circumstances. Roy, however, retracted his earlier consent, prompting the court to inquire about his stance directly.
Despite the central agency’s argument that the test would aid in verifying Roy’s narrative, the court ruled that it could not proceed without his clear consent. The rejection of the CBI’s request raises questions about the next steps in the investigation, which has already garnered widespread attention due to the high-profile nature of the case.
The incident at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital occurred on August 9, when the body of the postgraduate trainee doctor was found under mysterious circumstances. Initial reports pointed to sexual assault followed by murder, leading to an outcry from both the medical community and the public. Following the doctor's death, the Kolkata Police launched an investigation, which was later transferred to the CBI by a directive from the Calcutta High Court.
Since taking over the investigation, the CBI has been conducting extensive inquiries, including questioning hospital staff and those close to the victim. A polygraph test, or lie detector test, had already been administered to Roy while he was in judicial custody at Presidency Correctional Home. However, the CBI’s pursuit of a narco analysis test was seen as an attempt to delve deeper into the inconsistencies in Roy’s testimony.
The use of narco analysis has been a contentious issue in India, often debated for its ethical implications and legal admissibility. While the test is not legally binding in court, investigative agencies frequently seek its use as part of their broader fact-finding missions. During the procedure, a subject is administered sodium pentothal, a drug that induces a state of semi-consciousness, making it difficult for them to lie or withhold information. Nonetheless, its validity as evidence is questionable, and it can only be conducted with the suspect's explicit consent.
Following the court’s decision, the CBI remains focused on gathering other forms of evidence to strengthen its case. Investigators had visited the RG Kar hospital grounds, speaking to various personnel who were present on the night of the murder and closely examining multiple departments to reconstruct the chain of events. The deceased doctor’s family has also been involved in these efforts, with the CBI reportedly seeking their cooperation to verify key details.
Roy’s legal team has argued that the investigation has been plagued with procedural irregularities, maintaining his innocence throughout the proceedings. They view the refusal of the narco test as a victory, further emphasizing that such methods cannot be employed without strict adherence to legal guidelines. The defense has also raised concerns over the alleged pressure exerted on Roy during earlier questioning sessions, particularly around the use of psychological and forensic techniques.
On the investigative front, the CBI is expected to intensify its focus on forensic evidence and witness testimonies in the absence of further psychological tests on Roy. The ongoing investigation is being closely monitored by the Calcutta High Court, which had initially directed the CBI to take charge after expressing concerns over the handling of the case by local authorities.
As the case progresses, it remains to be seen whether the CBI will pursue alternative methods or look for additional witnesses to strengthen its argument. The rejection of the narco analysis test adds a layer of complexity to an already challenging investigation, and the outcome of the trial could hinge on the agency’s ability to present a solid body of evidence without relying on controversial techniques.