Thousands Protest Doctor's Rape and Murder in India

In a powerful response to the tragic rape and murder of a trainee doctor at Kolkata's R.G. Kar Medical College, thousands of women and men took to the streets across several Indian cities. The 31-year-old victim, whose identity has not been disclosed, was found dead in a hospital rest area on August 9, prompting widespread outrage and calls for improved safety measures for women. Prime Minister Narendra Modi acknowledged the public's anger during a speech commemorating India's 78th independence anniversary, emphasizing the need for societal reflection on violence against women. The protests, which coincided with India's Independence Day celebrations, featured a candlelight rally in Kolkata under the slogan "reclaim the night." Demonstrators held signs demanding justice and action against gender-based violence. Many government hospitals across India suspended non-emergency services as junior doctors protested, echoing concerns about their safety and working conditions. Dhruv Chauhan from the Indian Medical Association's Junior Doctors’ Network highlighted the urgent need for legal protections for medical professionals. The incident has drawn parallels to the infamous 2012 gang-rape case in New Delhi, which sparked nationwide protests and led to significant legal reforms. Activists and participants in the current protests are calling for swift investigations and severe punishments for crimes against women, emphasizing that every woman should feel safe to go out at night. As reported by the National Crime Records Bureau, crimes against women in India increased by 4 percent in 2022, underscoring the urgency of the movement for justice and safety.