RG Kar case: Abhaya’s DNA expert flags multiple suspects, counters CBI report

A new DNA report submitted to the Calcutta High Court by the family of the RG Kar case victim, Abhaya, has introduced a major development in the ongoing trial. The report, prepared by DNA expert and National Science Chair Parthapratim Majumdar, contradicts the Central Bureau of Investigation's earlier findings and suggests the involvement of multiple individuals at the crime scene.

Previously, the CBI had submitted a report from the Central Forensic Science Laboratory (CFSL), Delhi, stating that Sanjay Roy, the sole accused, had committed the crime alone and that the incident did not amount to gang rape. Dissatisfied with these findings, Abhaya’s family sought permission from the High Court to consult an independent DNA expert. Following court approval, they engaged Majumdar, whose report has now been officially placed before the bench.

Majumdar’s report claims that on the day of the incident, there was evidence indicating the presence of another woman at the crime scene in addition to Sanjay Roy. It further states that this woman may have come into contact with Abhaya’s body. The report also notes that the presence of another male individual cannot be ruled out based on the DNA traces recovered. These findings contrast directly with the CFSL report relied upon by the CBI in its investigation and prosecution.

Abhaya’s parents had long expressed dissatisfaction with the CBI’s investigation, maintaining that Sanjay Roy was not the only person involved. Although Sanjay was convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment by the Sealdah court, both the CBI and the state government later filed separate appeals seeking the death penalty. However, during High Court proceedings, Abhaya’s parents informed the court that they did not support capital punishment and reiterated their demand for action against all individuals involved.

The Calcutta High Court has taken note of the discrepancies between the two reports and, in the next hearing, has called for a formal statement from DNA expert Parthapratim Majumdar. The court has asked whether the report suggests gang rape and whether there is sufficient evidence to establish the presence of multiple individuals at the scene. The case continues to be under judicial consideration.