Protests erupt across India after trainee doctor’s rape, murder

Protests have erupted across India after the rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor at a government hospital in Kolkata, West Bengal. Demonstrators gathered in cities including New Delhi, Mumbai and Hyderabad, demanding justice and improved security at medical institutions.

The protests began on Aug. 9 when the woman’s body was discovered in a seminar hall at R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital. An autopsy confirmed sexual assault, and a police volunteer was detained in connection with the crime. The victim’s family, however, claims it was a gang rape involving more individuals.

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As public anger grows, thousands of doctors and paramedics are demanding safer working conditions at hospitals nationwide. Many hospitals have suspended non-emergency services in solidarity with the protests.

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has called for a 24-hour nationwide strike starting Saturday, Aug. 17, urging authorities to address safety concerns for health care workers, particularly female doctors.

“Doctors, especially women, face risks due to the nature of their work. It is the responsibility of authorities to ensure their safety in hospitals and campuses,” the IMA said in a statement.

The protests have drawn comparisons to the 2012 gang rape and murder of a 23-year-old student in New Delhi, which led to mass demonstrations and resulted in tougher laws on sexual violence.

Despite these legal reforms, reports of rape in India continue to rise. In 2022, police recorded over 31,500 cases, a 20% increase from the previous year, according to the National Crime Records Bureau.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the recent incident, saying, “Monstrous behavior against women should be severely and promptly punished.”

Political leaders, celebrities, and rights activists have echoed these sentiments, calling for stronger action to protect women.

In addition to the peaceful protests, unrest occurred on Wednesday night at R.G. Kar Medical College, where demonstrators vandalized property and injured several police officers. Nineteen people have been arrested in connection with the violence.