Protest turns violent after tragic incident at medical college in eastern India; dozens detained for property damage
by Aditi VermaThe “Reclaim the Night” protest in eastern India’s West Bengal turned chaotic as a mob stormed the Hospital, where a 31-year-old trainee doctor was tragically raped and murdered. The violence, which saw police using tear gas, resulted in injuries and detentions.
The incident took place at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata on August 14.
Visuals showed amid a protest at the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, a large mob forcefully entered the premises, creating chaos and widespread destruction. The group rampaged through the hospital, smashing property and spreading disorder. They invaded various rooms within the hospital, causing significant damage and leaving a scene of turmoil and confusion. The once orderly environment was turned into a scene of havoc, with broken furniture, shattered windows, and scattered debris reflecting the intensity of the disruption.
The “Reclaim the Night” protest, which began around midnight on August 14, 2024, quickly escalated in Kolkata and other parts of West Bengal. Thousands of women took to the streets demanding justice for the 31-year-old trainee doctor who was brutally raped and murdered at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital on August 9.
The protest turned violent when a group, posing as demonstrators, invaded the hospital premises, vandalized property, and clashed with police. The West Bengal government has faced severe criticism, with the Indian Medical Association (IMA) condemning the vandalism and calling for urgent action. IMA officials have demanded a meeting with state branches to decide on further steps.
The BJP has also weighed in, with state president Sukanta Majumdar accusing the ruling TMC of failing to maintain law and order. Majumdar announced plans for a candlelight rally at the Chief Minister’s residence on August 16. Meanwhile, Governor C.V. Ananda Bose visited the hospital and assured that justice would be pursued, condemning the incident as a disgrace to civil society.
A civic volunteer has been arrested in connection with the crime, and twelve individuals were detained for vandalism during the protests. The incident has sparked a fierce debate over public safety and governance in West Bengal.