Women March for Justice in Kolkata

Tens of thousands of women took to the streets of Kolkata on Wednesday night to demand justice after the tragic rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor at a local hospital.

The horrifying incident occurred at RG Kar Medical College, where the young doctor was found dead in a seminar room after finishing a grueling 36-hour shift. She had fallen asleep without a designated rest area, only to be discovered the next morning in a disturbing state.

Angered by this brutal crime, women from various backgrounds marched under the banner of ‘Reclaim the Night,’ with many carrying placards and chanting powerful slogans like “we want justice.” The rain did not deter their spirits; instead, they marched with candles and torches, illuminating the night.

While most of the protests were peaceful, tensions escalated at times. A small group of men reportedly stormed into the RG Kar Hospital, causing chaos and property destruction. In response, police fired tear gas to disperse the crowd, and several vehicles were damaged in the mayhem.

In addition to the large march in Kolkata, smaller protests were held in cities like Delhi, Hyderabad, and Mumbai, highlighting the widespread outrage across the country. Many of the participants expressed frustration over the ongoing struggles women face for their safety and rights.

The protest also drew attention to government handling of the case. Authorities later confirmed the arrest of a hospital volunteer worker connected to the incident, but many protesters accused local authorities of negligence and cover-up.

As the clock struck midnight, marking India‘s 77th Independence Day, the air filled with the sound of the national anthem as the determined crowd continued to march. “We have never seen anything like this before,” said one reporter, reflecting on the unprecedented gathering.

Protesters emphasized their shared determination and the urgency of their cause. The emotional display was palpable, as women of all ages stood united in their demands for justice and safety, aware of the challenges ahead.