Demonstrations in Kolkata have been met with police brutality, including the use of tear gas and water cannons, following the rape and murder of a trainee doctor. This tragic incident, which occurred on August 9, has sparked outrage throughout India, with calls for justice and a thorough investigation becoming stronger than ever. Student protests, led by university students, broke through police barricades demanding the resignation of West Bengal’s Chief Minister, Mamata Banerjee, due to her handling of the case. The death of the 31-year-old medical student while on duty at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital has highlighted the ongoing issue of sexual violence in India.
The capital of West Bengal, Kolkata, saw a massive police presence, with more than 5,000 officers deployed, and schools and workplaces announced closures due to concerns over traffic disruptions caused by the protests. The police had prohibited a rally organized by the Indian opposition party, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), accusing students instead of attempting to incite violence. Four student activists were arrested prior to the rally, and several BJP demonstrators, who are also calling for Banerjee’s resignation, joined the protests. Kunal Ghosh, spokesperson for the Trinamool Congress, which Banerjee represents, criticized the police’s handling of the situation, pointing out that lawlessness stems from the activities of the BJP.
Although a police volunteer has been arrested in connection with the doctor’s death, her family claims that the case involves multiple perpetrators and gang rape. An autopsy has confirmed that sexual assault occurred. The protests, which are now spreading to other cities, resemble the massive demonstrations that took place after the rape of a 23-year-old student in New Delhi in 2012. Activists point out that women continue to face a high rate of sexual violence despite stricter laws that were implemented following that landmark case.
In 2022, India recorded 31,516 rapes, a 20 percent increase from the previous year, according to the National Crime Records Bureau. Last week, India’s Supreme Court established a security task force to make recommendations aimed at improving the safety of healthcare personnel.