Written By Lisa Murimi
Tens of thousands of women and supporters took to the streets of Kolkata and across West Bengal on Wednesday night in a powerful display of protest against the rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor.
The victim, a medical intern at RG Kar Medical College, was found dead last Friday after a grueling 36-hour shift.
She was discovered half-naked and severely injured in a seminar room, leading to the arrest of a hospital volunteer in connection with the crime.
The Reclaim the Night march, held on the eve of India’s 77th Independence Day, saw protesters holding torches and candles, chanting “We want justice” and waving national flags.
The mood was both somber and resolute, with participants enduring rain and clashes with police.
In a notable turn, the protesters sang the national anthem as midnight approached, their voices echoing through the city despite the weather.
The protests, which included similar demonstrations in cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Pune, have sparked widespread condemnation of local authorities’ handling of the case.
Accusations of negligence and a cover-up led to the case being transferred to the Central Bureau of Investigation.
Organizers of the Kolkata march emphasized the peaceful nature of the protest and the inclusion of all genders and marginalized groups, marking the largest Reclaim the Night event in India’s history.
Protester Chaitali Sen remarked, “This is unprecedented. I hope it wakes up the authorities.”
The massive turnout reflects a growing demand for justice and safety for women across the nation.
