Nationwide Protests Erupt Over Rape and Murder of Doctor in Kolkata

Thousands of people took to the streets across various Indian cities on Friday, protesting the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at a government hospital. Protesters with placards demanded accountability, justice, and stronger security measures at medical campuses and hospitals nationwide.

The protests began on August 9 when the bloodied body of the 31-year-old doctor was discovered in the seminar hall of R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata. The autopsy later revealed that she had been a victim of sexual assault. A police volunteer was detained in connection with the crime, although the victim's family alleges that the incident involved multiple perpetrators.

Rising Anger and Nationwide Outrage

In the days following the incident, public anger has escalated, leading to widespread protests against violence towards women. These protests have prompted thousands of doctors and paramedics to walk out of public hospitals across India, demanding safer working environments. The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has called for a nationwide strike, excluding essential services, for 24 hours starting Saturday.

Sexual Violence in India

Sexual violence against women continues to be a serious and widespread issue in India. According to the National Crime Records Bureau, police recorded 31,516 rape cases in 2022, marking a 20% increase from the previous year. Many cases go unreported due to societal stigma and a lack of confidence in law enforcement, particularly in rural areas where victims often face community shaming.

Political and Public Reactions

Political parties, celebrities, and public figures have condemned the crime, calling for stricter punishments for perpetrators. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his Independence Day address, called for severe and prompt punishment for those committing such heinous acts. The case has drawn comparisons to the 2012 Delhi gang rape, which led to significant legal reforms, including harsher penalties and the establishment of fast-track courts for rape cases.

The IMA emphasized the vulnerability of women in the medical profession, urging authorities to ensure the safety of doctors within hospitals and on campuses. As protests continue, the call for justice and systemic change echoes across the nation.