Protests Demanding Justice for Murdered Woman Erupt Across India
Doctors in India have launched a nationwide strike in response to the tragic rape and murder of a female colleague in Kolkata, West Bengal. The Indian Medical Association (IMA), representing the nation’s physicians, announced that all non-essential hospital services would cease operations on Saturday amid rising calls for justice.
Describing the incident as a “crime of barbaric scale” fueled by the absence of safe spaces for women, the IMA is rallying public support for its campaign. Protests intensified following a violent mob attack on the hospital where the crime occurred, highlighting a growing demand for enhanced protections for women.
In a statement, the IMA confirmed that emergency and casualty services would remain operational during the 24-hour strike. Additionally, some government hospitals have suspended elective procedures indefinitely in solidarity with the protest.
The IMA’s demands include stricter laws to protect medical personnel from violence, improved security in hospitals, and the establishment of safe resting areas for staff. They have also called for a thorough investigation into the killing and prosecution of those responsible for the vandalism, alongside compensation for the victim’s family.
The shocking rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor have sent shockwaves throughout the nation. Her body, showing severe injuries, was discovered in a seminar hall at R G Kar Medical College after she reportedly went there to rest during her shift. A hospital volunteer has been arrested in connection with the case, which has now been handed over to India’s Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) due to public outcry over the initial handling.
Recent events have reignited discussions on the safety of women in India, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi stating that “monstrous behaviour against women should be severely and quickly punished.”
The incident has also ignited political tensions in West Bengal, with the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) blaming the ruling Trinamool Congress Party (TMC) for the attack. In response, the TMC has accused “political outsiders” of instigating violence.
Mass demonstrations have occurred across the state, culminating in the Reclaim the Night march, where tens of thousands of women demanded their right to live freely and without fear. While many protests remained peaceful, clashes occurred between police and unidentified individuals at the RG Kar Hospital, leading to at least 25 arrests.
Cities including Delhi, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Pune have also seen protests echoing these sentiments. One demonstrator expressed a renewed sense of hope, stating, “It feels like hope is being reignited” as thousands took to the streets of Kolkata.
