Former Indian cricketer Sourav Ganguly participated in a candlelight vigil alongside his daughter, Sana Ganguly, demanding justice for the alleged sexual assault and murder of a postgraduate trainee doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. This tragic incident, which occurred on August 9, has stirred widespread protests and prompted celebrities and public figures, especially those affiliated with the Trinamool Congress, to speak out.
Initially, Ganguly faced backlash for referring to the incident as a “stray occurrence.” However, he later expressed that the event was “terrible and shameful,” emphasizing the need for harsh penalties for the offenders. During the protest, he reiterated that women should feel safe in India, including in West Bengal, stating that one incident should not tarnish the reputation of an entire state.
Sana Ganguly expressed her deep concern over the frequent occurrence of such crimes, stating, “Every day we hear about a rape incident… Even in 2024, such incidents are still happening despite the discussions about equality.” She highlighted the importance of continuing the protests until justice is served for the victim.
Filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri joined the protests, asserting that rape is being exploited as a political tool and calling for an end to the violence in Bengal. This sentiment has resonated across various sectors, as a notable number of artists, actors, and musicians have rallied for justice for the victim. Recently, a large group of Bengali film personalities participated in a peaceful march in Kolkata to amplify their demands.
Actor Mimi Chakraborty and former Trinamool MP also took to the streets in support of the victim. Unfortunately, her political affiliations drew criticism and threats online. Alongside her, fellow actor Raj Chakraborty and his wife, actress Subhashree Ganguly, were part of a substantial rally organized by the Bengali film community, highlighting their solidarity with the cause.
Prominent Bengali filmmakers and actors, including Parambrata Chattopadhyay, voiced their determination to maintain their right to speak out against injustice. Many other artists from the Bengali music industry have also joined these protests, showcasing a unified front.
The protests have led to intense discussions about safety protocols within medical institutions, as echoed by director Srijit Mukherjee, who brought personal experiences to the forefront, stressing the need for improved security measures on campus.
On August 14, notable filmmaker Aparna Sen joined junior doctors at the protest site, questioning the thoroughness of the initial police investigation into the case and calling for accountability. However, her participation elicited mixed reactions among protesters, indicating a complex dialogue surrounding the incident and its political implications.
The ongoing demonstrations continue to highlight the urgent need for justice and systemic change in response to violence against women in the region.
