Medical workers across India initiated a nationwide strike on Saturday to protest the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at a state-run hospital in West Bengal. The strike, organized by the Indian Medical Association, is set to halt all non-essential services in hospitals for 24 hours, impacting thousands of patients throughout the country. The protests, which have gained momentum in recent days, are mainly led by women demanding greater safety in their workplaces.
The tragic incident occurred on August 9, when police found the 31-year-old trainee doctor’s body in the seminar hall of RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata. Authorities have detained a police volunteer linked to the case, but the victim’s family suspects more individuals were involved, claiming it was a gang rape. An autopsy confirmed signs of sexual assault, prompting federal investigators to take over the case amid allegations of mishandling by local officials.
On Wednesday night, thousands of women took to the streets in various cities, participating in “Reclaim The Night” marches to advocate for justice for the victim. Many protesters called for the death penalty for those guilty of the crime.
Medical workers are asserting their demand for justice for the victim and ensuring safety for healthcare professionals in medical facilities. With only emergency treatments continuing, more strikes are anticipated over the weekend. Doctors emphasize that this incident illustrates the risks faced by medical staff who lack adequate safety measures. The Indian Medical Association has urged public support in their “struggle for justice,” describing the murder as a “crime of barbaric scale” linked to the unsafe environments for women.
Sexual violence against women continues to be a significant issue in India, often overshadowed by stigma and distrust in law enforcement. Activists highlight the problem is especially prevalent in rural areas where victims face community shaming and families fear damage to their reputations. Despite the challenges, reported cases of rape have surged; in 2022 alone, authorities documented 31,516 incidents, marking a 20 percent increase from the previous year.