In Kolkata on Tuesday, police resorted to a "mild lathi-charge" during a protest march organised by ABVP activists to demand justice for a post-graduate trainee doctor who was allegedly raped and murdered at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital.
ABVP activists participating in the protest demanded the resignation of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who also holds the portfolios of health and home. The protestors, especially enraged women activists, voiced their frustration over the alleged rape and murder, describing the incident as "unthinkable" and criticising the state government for failing to ensure the safety of healthcare workers.
The protests were sparked by the discovery of a post-graduate trainee doctor's body in the seminar room of RG Kar Medical College and Hospital on August 9. The incident, involving the alleged rape and murder of the medic, has triggered widespread outrage across the country. A civic volunteer was arrested the following day in connection with the crime, leading to growing demands for accountability and justice.
The agitation by junior doctors in West Bengal has severely impacted healthcare services at state-run hospitals. The cease-work, which began on August 9 following the tragic incident at RG Kar Hospital, has entered its 12th day. The junior doctors are demanding stronger security measures in medical establishments to prevent such incidents in the future.
On August 13, the Calcutta High Court ordered the transfer of the investigation into the doctor's rape and murder from the Kolkata Police to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The CBI began its probe the next day, following concerns over the handling of the case by local authorities. The move has been welcomed by many who hope for a thorough and impartial investigation.
Amid the ongoing protests, the situation at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital escalated when a mob entered the premises on August 15. The group vandalised the emergency department, nursing station, and medicine store, while also damaging CCTV cameras. The incident has further highlighted the tensions surrounding the case and the urgent need for improved security measures in healthcare facilities.
During the protest march on Tuesday, over 20 ABVP activists, including national secretary Rahul Rana, were detained by the police. Among those arrested were four women activists who were actively involved in the demonstration.
The protests over the alleged rape and murder of the RG Kar Hospital doctor have underscored the growing discontent among healthcare workers and activists in West Bengal. The incident has brought to the forefront issues of safety and security in medical establishments, prompting widespread calls for systemic reforms and accountability at the highest levels of government.
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