Will Protests Erupt Again on the Anniversary of the R.G. Kar Rape-Murder?
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Synopsis
As the first anniversary of the tragic R.G. Kar Medical College rape and murder approaches, West Bengal braces for a wave of protests. Victim's parents and various groups aim to demand justice and accountability from the authorities, highlighting ongoing safety concerns in the region.
Key Takeaways
- Protests are set to begin on August 8.
- Victim's parents are leading the call for justice.
- Multiple events are planned across the city.
- Concerns about safety in educational institutions persist.
- Political leaders are actively supporting the movement.
Kolkata, Aug 6 (NationPress) This weekend marks the beginning of a series of protests across West Bengal, commemorating the first anniversary of the tragic rape and murder of a female junior doctor from R.G. Kar Medical College & Hospital in Kolkata, which occurred last August. The victim's body was found in a seminar hall on the morning of August 9.
Although Sanjay Roy, the sole convict in this heinous crime, has been sentenced to life imprisonment by the trial court, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has yet to conclude its inquiry into the supposed 'larger conspiracy' surrounding the incident, even after a year.
Last year's protests mainly targeted the West Bengal state administration and the ruling Trinamool Congress, but this year’s demonstrations are expected to broaden the scope to include the CBI's alleged failure to conduct a thorough investigation.
The victim's parents have initiated a call for a 'Nabanna Abhijan' (march to the state secretariat) on August 9, inviting political parties to join in their quest for justice on the anniversary of their daughter’s tragic death.
Suvendu Adhikari, the Leader of the Opposition in the West Bengal Legislative Assembly, who proposed involving the victim's parents in the march, has pledged full support for the protests. On Wednesday, Adhikari accused the state government of misusing its police force to thwart the protest.
He also stated that a special police briefing has been scheduled involving nearly all senior IPS officers of the West Bengal Police.
Through his social media platform, Adhikari, while omitting Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s name, suggested that she has left the city for Jhargram, purportedly to attend official events, while deploying police to safeguard the state secretariat.
“Abhaya's parents, a year after the hellish episode that happened to their child, have called for a 'Nabanna Abhijan' to demand answers from the state’s police and health minister for their failure regarding the incident. But out of that fear, the honourable person has already fled the city!” Adhikari alleged.
In addition to the march to the state secretariat, various pressure groups have announced multiple protest initiatives from August 8 to August 15 to observe the anniversary of the tragedy.
The Joint Platform of Doctors (JPD), West Bengal Medical Service Centre, Service Doctors affiliated with the All India Democratic Students' Organisation (AIDSO), West Bengal Doctors’ Forum, and Association of Health Service Doctors will be coordinating several protest actions.
Punyabrata, the JPD convenor, expressed that the state government has failed in safeguarding the daughters of Bengal in educational institutions and hospitals.
“Even after the tragic incident at R.G. Kar Medical College & Hospital a year ago, another rape took place in a law college in South Kolkata. This highlights the urgent need to take to the streets once again to demand justice for our daughter and hold the government accountable,” he added.
On August 8, the West Bengal Junior Doctors' Forum (WBJDF) will hold a torch rally from College Square to Shyambazar in north Kolkata at 9 P.M., followed by a sit-in from midnight to 4 A.M. the next day at Shyambazar five-point crossing.
On August 9, JPD and Abhaya Mancha will celebrate by tying rakhis in the morning, symbolizing a commitment to safety and security. At 4 P.M., doctors will gather at Hazra crossing to march towards Kalighat, near Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's residence.
At 6 P.M., the WBHDF has called for a gathering at R.G. Kar Medical College & Hospital.
On August 14, rallies and protest meetings will be organized by both doctors and community members. At midnight, another 'Reclaim the Night' event is scheduled across Kolkata where citizens, including local women, will take to the streets to demand justice.
Point of View
The ongoing protests in West Bengal over the tragic R.G. Kar case highlight a critical issue. Citizens are demanding accountability and action from the government and investigative bodies. It is essential to ensure that such incidents do not repeat, and that the voices of the affected families are heard.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the upcoming protests in West Bengal?
The protests mark the first anniversary of the tragic rape and murder of a junior doctor, highlighting ongoing concerns about safety and justice in the region.
Who is leading the protests?
The protests are being led by the victim's parents, along with various medical associations and political leaders, including Suvendu Adhikari.
What are the key events planned for the anniversary?
Key events include a 'Nabanna Abhijan' march, torch rallies, sit-ins, and commemorative gatherings scheduled from August 8 to August 15.
What has the response from the government been?
The government has been accused of trying to suppress the protests through police deployment and administrative tactics.
How can citizens participate in the protests?
Citizens can join the various planned events, including rallies and marches, to stand in solidarity with the victim's family and demand justice.
