Thousands of people took to the streets of Kolkata in protests demanding justice for a young doctor who was raped and murdered in a hospital. Despite the end of a strike called by a major doctors’ association, some junior doctors remained off the job, highlighting the ongoing outrage over the tragic incident.
The protests have sparked a nationwide movement, with doctors across the country holding demonstrations and refusing to see nonemergency patients. The incident has reignited concerns about violence against women in India, despite the government’s efforts to implement tougher laws following the brutal gang rape in Delhi in 2012.
A police volunteer has been arrested and charged with the crime, but activists say more needs to be done to prevent such atrocities. The Indian Medical Association has called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene and ensure the safety of hospital staff, particularly women.
The protests at the hospital have continued for over a week, with police attempting to contain the demonstrations by banning large gatherings. However, protesters have defied the ban and continue to demand a thorough inquiry and arrests in the case.
In Modi’s home state of Gujarat, thousands of trainee doctors have also joined the movement, staying away from nonemergency medical services in government hospitals. The widespread protests reflect the growing anger and frustration over the lack of action against violence towards women in India.
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