“Protests for Justice Erupt Across West Bengal on Independence Eve”

The call for justice resonated throughout West Bengal on the eve of Independence Day, as citizens took to the streets in a resurgence of “Reclaim the Night” protests. Despite police restrictions, demonstrators gathered in various towns and cities, including Kolkata, to demand accountability for the rape and murder of a postgraduate trainee doctor at R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital, a tragedy that has left a lasting impact on the region.

The events of August 9, 2024, when the body of a 31-year-old doctor was discovered in a seminar hall at R.G. Kar Medical College, shocked the state and the nation. An autopsy confirmed that she had suffered rape, sexual assault, and strangulation, igniting a wave of protests across West Bengal. Thousands of individuals, primarily women along with men and LGBTQ+ allies, filled the streets, demanding justice and an end to violence against women.

Echoes of Last Year’s Outcry

Last year’s protests were marked by a raw display of grief and anger, with slogans such as “This Night is Ours” and “Women, Reclaim the Night” becoming rallying cries for the movement. The initial handling of the case, characterized by accusations of victim-blaming and attempts to expedite cremation, further fueled public outrage. In January 2025, a civic volunteer named Sanjay Roy was convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment, but many, including the victim’s family, continue to advocate for a broader investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death.

This year’s protests, held on August 14, revealed the public’s unwavering demand for accountability. Although police denied permission for marches in high-security areas like Nabanna and Kalighat, alternative forms of protest emerged. Torchlight marches and cultural gatherings took place in various locations, showcasing the community’s resilience.

In Hooghly, a “Reclaim the Night” program unfolded outside the Sashibhushan High School, featuring cultural demonstrations that highlighted the cause. Similarly, Bandel saw a vibrant event organized by civil society, which drew participation from local residents and educators. In Baharampur, protesters gathered near Textile More, carrying candles and demanding justice for the R.G. Kar incident.

A Unified Voice for Justice

In Dhupguri and Malbazar, “Reclaim the Night” events also took place, reinforcing the collective determination of the community to seek justice. In Medinipur, large crowds marched through the streets, while in Krishnanagar, residents lit candles along the roadway at Post Office More to honor the victim’s memory. The atmosphere in Jalpaiguri mirrored this sentiment, with protests continuing until midnight, driven by passionate slogans demanding justice.

The protests extended to various neighborhoods in Kolkata, where demonstrators blockaded sections of Diamond Harbour Road in Behala’s 14 number area. These widespread demonstrations underscore the enduring public sentiment and the ongoing fight for justice and safer environments for women. The R.G. Kar tragedy remains a catalyst for change, resonating deeply within the fabric of West Bengal society.

As the protests continued, they served not only as a remembrance of a life lost but also as a powerful testament to the community’s commitment to advocating for justice and reform. The spirit of “We Want Justice” echoes loudly, signaling that the fight for accountability and safety for women in West Bengal is far from over.