Kolkata doctor case: Protests against horrific rape of doctor intensify in India

In a powerful display of solidarity, women took to the streets in numerous Indian cities, demanding justice and an end to violence against women. Prime Minister Narendra Modi echoed their sentiments, urging for stringent punishment for those who commit crimes against women. The nation's collective anger and protests continue to grow in response to the horrifying rape and murder of a doctor.

Women across cities, including the eastern Indian city of Kolkata, took to the streets with candles and posters that read "Reclaim the night". These marches were sparked by the recent rape and murder of a trainee doctor, which has led fellow medics to protest for improved and safer working conditions.

Government hospitals in cities across India have temporarily suspended all services, except emergency departments, due to ongoing protests by junior doctors. The doctors are demanding justice for the victim and have taken to sitting outside the hospitals in protest.

A tragic incident occurred on Friday when a 31-year-old doctor was discovered deceased. According to authorities, the victim was tragically subjected to sexual assault and homicide. As the investigation unfolded, a police volunteer was taken into custody about the incident.

It is crucial for us as a society to reflect upon the heinous acts being perpetrated against the women who are our mothers, daughters, and sisters. There has been a wave of public anger and frustration sweeping the nation. "I can sense the strong sense of outrage," stated Modi during his Thursday address to the country on the 78th Independence Day.

A recent rape incident has brought back memories of a previous case in New Delhi in 2012. During that incident, a group of men brutally raped and inflicted severe injuries on a 23-year-old student aboard a moving bus, tragically resulting in her death.

Bollywood actor Alia Bhatt took to her Instagram page, which boasts over 85 million followers, to express her thoughts on the recent incident. She highlighted the unfortunate reality that women often shoulder the burden of their safety.

Doctors in India's government hospitals have voiced concerns about their challenging working conditions. They have expressed their frustration about being overworked and receiving inadequate pay. Additionally, they have highlighted the issue of violence directed towards them by individuals who are dissatisfied with the available medical care.

According to data released by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) last year, there was a 4% increase in crimes against women in India in 2022 compared to the previous year.