Kollam: In a landmark judgment, the Kollam Additional Sessions Court has convicted the accused in the brutal murder of young doctor Vandana Das, who was attacked while on duty at a taluk hospital in 2023. The court is set to pronounce the sentence on March 19, marking a crucial moment in a case that sparked nationwide outrage over the safety of healthcare professionals.
Court Rejects Insanity Plea, Finds Accused Guilty
Additional Sessions Judge P N Vinod delivered the verdict, ruling that the accused, Sandeep, cannot claim protection under Section 84 of the Indian Penal Code, which pertains to acts committed by persons of unsound mind.
The court convicted him under eight IPC sections, including murder, attempt to murder a police officer, destruction of evidence, and obstruction of public servants. He was also found guilty under the Healthcare Service Institutions (Prevention of Violence and Damage to Property) Act.
Prosecution Establishes Premeditation and Deception
According to prosecution counsel Prathap G Padikkal, the accused deliberately attempted to mislead investigators by fabricating symptoms of mental illness.
The court was told that he studied psychiatric material while in custody and tried to convince medical experts that he suffered from schizophrenia. However, cross-examination and medical evaluations revealed no signs of mental disorder, strengthening the prosecution’s case.
Medical Reports Confirm Mental Fitness
Following his arrest, the accused underwent multiple psychiatric assessments, all of which concluded that he was mentally fit. A medical board evaluation conducted in May 2023 reaffirmed these findings and recommended monitoring, further dismissing claims of insanity.
Brutal Attack Inside Hospital Premises
The shocking incident took place on May 10, 2023, at Kottarakkara Taluk Hospital in Kerala’s Kollam district. The accused, brought in by police for a routine check-up, suddenly attacked hospital staff using surgical scissors he had secretly obtained.
Dr Vandana Das sustained multiple stab wounds and later succumbed to her injuries despite being shifted for advanced treatment. Several police personnel and hospital staff were also injured during the attack.
Young Doctor’s Death Sparked Nationwide Outrage
The 23-year-old doctor had recently completed her MBBS and was serving as a house surgeon. She was the only daughter of her parents and hailed from Kottayam district.
Her tragic death triggered widespread protests by the medical community, raising serious concerns about the safety and security of healthcare workers in India.
Extensive Trial with Strong Evidence Base
The trial, which began in February 2025, examined over 70 witnesses and reviewed 207 documents. Testimonies from doctors, nurses, police personnel, and other hospital staff played a crucial role in establishing the sequence of events.
The prosecution emphasized that the accused acted with clear intent, citing Supreme Court precedents to argue that the crime could not be excused on grounds of mental illness.
Kerala High Court Earlier Dismissed CBI Probe Plea
Earlier, the Kerala High Court had dismissed a plea seeking a CBI investigation into the case, stating there was no reason to doubt the integrity of the probe conducted by the Crime Branch.
Verdict Seen as Message Against Violence on Doctors
The conviction is being viewed as a strong message against violence targeting healthcare professionals. With sentencing expected soon, the case continues to highlight the urgent need for stricter security measures in medical institutions across the country.
