KOLKATA, India: Tens of thousands of people took to the streets of Kolkata in protest after doctors resumed a strike demanding justice for the rape and murder of a 31-year-old colleague.
The gruesome attack, which occurred two months ago at a state-run hospital, has reignited anger over violence against women in India. Doctors had initially returned to work but resumed their strike, citing unmet promises by the West Bengal government to improve hospital security.
Tuesday’s protest march saw participation from various civil society groups, with demonstrators carrying the Indian flag and vowing to continue until justice is served. The timing of the protests coincides with the city’s Durga Puja festival, and organizers plan to use the occasion to raise awareness about violence against women.
One man has been arrested in connection with the murder, but the government has faced criticism over its handling of the case. Kolkata’s police chief and top health officials have been dismissed, but the victim’s father, who attended the march, stated that his family remains devastated, seeking justice for his daughter’s brutal death.
Further protests are expected as public outrage continues to mount.
