Protests Erupt Over Trainee Doctor’s Death

Twelve people have been detained in Kolkata following vandalism at the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital amid ongoing protests over the alleged rape and murder of a trainee doctor.

West Bengal Governor C.V. Ananda Bose visited the hospital and expressed his concern, stating that the incident is a shame to civil society. He assured the students that he is committed to finding justice.

The Indian Medical Association strongly condemned the vandalism, blaming the West Bengal government led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for the breakdown of public order. They are planning an emergency meeting to discuss further actions.

The protests began after the body of a 31-year-old postgraduate trainee was discovered in a seminar room on August 9. Reports say that the woman had fallen asleep after a long shift due to the lack of rest areas.

In response to social media calls, thousands of women took to the streets on August 14, marching through Kolkata in a moving display of unity and anger. They carried placards and chanted for justice.

Some clashes occurred between police and a group of individuals who stormed the emergency department of the hospital and damaged property. The police deployed tear gas to control the situation.

As protesters marched under the rain, they held up India’s flags and lit candles, creating a powerful scene. The atmosphere was charged with chants demanding justice, resonating throughout the city.

Participants included people of all ages and backgrounds, some with young children, wanting to instill a sense of awareness about rights and justice. Many shared that the gathering felt historic, with promises of change in the air.

Earlier anger had been directed at local authorities over their handling of the case, which has now been transferred to the federal Central Bureau of Investigation due to concerns about negligence.

This protest is not the first of its kind in India. However, the scale of the Kolkata demonstration is unprecedented, with organizers emphasizing it as a peaceful, inclusive event, urging everyone—especially politicians—to avoid any party symbols.