Indian doctors across the country have gone on strike after the brutal rape and murder of a 31-year-old doctor in Kolkata, West Bengal. The discovery of her bloodied body at a state-run hospital on August 9 has sparked nationwide protests, with thousands demanding action against the perpetrators of this heinous crime. The protests have been led by healthcare workers but have also seen widespread participation from common citizens.
In Kolkata, a candlelight vigil was held where protesters carried signs that read “Hands that heal shouldn’t bleed” and “Enough is enough”. Similar sentiments were expressed at a rally in New Delhi, with calls to “Hang the rapist”. The victim was found in the hospital’s seminar hall, indicating she may have gone there for rest during a long shift. An autopsy confirmed sexual assault, with the victim’s parents suspecting she may have been gang-raped.
Amid outrage over the handling of the case by city police, the Calcutta High Court transferred the investigation to the Central Bureau of Investigation for transparency. Sexual violence against women is a pervasive issue in India, with close to 90 rapes reported daily in the country. The doctors’ strike and widespread protests are a reflection of the deep-seated anger and frustration at the rampant violence against women in India, with many demanding swift and stringent action to ensure justice for the victim and to prevent such atrocities in the future.
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