“Standing up to bullies is the hallmark of a civilised society.” This statement by Robert Bernard Reich, an American professor, author, lawyer, and political commentator who worked in the administrations of presidents Gerald Ford and Jimmy Carter, sums up the role and duties of the government and a perfect guiding principle for those who claim to be a civilised society. West Bengal may kindly take note. The recent tragic, cruel, and insane incident happened on August 9, 2024, when a postgraduate trainee doctor was brutally raped and murdered at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, igniting widespread protests across India.
This shocking incident has led to significant political fallout, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) demanding the resignation of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. BJP Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari claimed that the vandalism during the protests was orchestrated by "TMC goons" acting on behalf of Banerjee.
What was initially described as a suicide has quickly evolved into a significant source of public outrage. The incident has drawn intense scrutiny as new details have emerged. Activists, community leaders, and concerned citizens are now demanding justice, calling for a thorough investigation to hold those responsible accountable.
Social media campaigns and public demonstrations are amplifying voices, which insist that this matter cannot be dismissed lightly. The public's reaction underscores a growing awareness of the need for transparency and justice in similar cases. As more people rally for change, the demand for accountability in this situation has become a rallying point for broader discussions about mental health, support systems, and the treatment of vulnerable individuals. The movement is gaining momentum, emphasising that every life matters and that justice must prevail.
Protests have become increasingly intense, particularly at the hospital where the crime occurred. In one protest, media reports indicated that a group of miscrents disguised as demonstrators entered the premises, vandalising property and clashing with police. The Indian Medical Association (IMA) condemned the state government, asserting that it bore direct responsibility for the breakdown of public order.
In the aftermath of the tragic event, the body of the young doctor was discovered in a seminar hall, leading to the arrest of a civic volunteer linked to the crime. Despite efforts by the West Bengal health department to restore normalcy in medical institutions, junior and senior doctors have refused to return to work, demanding a safe working environment.
Discussions between health officials and doctor representatives have taken place, aimed at persuading the medical community to resume their duties. However, the doctors remain resolute in their demands for enhanced security and measures to protect their safety in the wake of this horrific incident. The ongoing protests reflect not only the outrage over this particular case but also broader concerns regarding the safety of women in society and the challenges faced by medical professionals in the region.
Earlier examples of law and order collapse
Below are few incidents that reflect a pattern of inadequate responses to serious allegations of sexual violence and harassment, raising concerns about the government's commitment to women's safety.
The 2012 Park Street gang rape occurred just a year after Mamata Banerjee assumed power, yet she dismissed the incident as a “shajano ghotona” (staged event).
In 2013, the Kamduni gang rape highlighted the police's slow response, with Mamata only addressing the issue after public protests intensified.
In the Sandeshkhali case, multiple women reported sexual harassment by local TMC leaders, but the Mamata government labeled these accusations as part of a conspiracy.
Doctors leave duty, sit on protests
The Federation of Resident Doctors’ Associations (FORDA) has decided to continue protests in Delhi, following backlash from medics over its previous decision to halt the agitation after receiving a "verbal" assurance from the health ministry. This assurance included promises to address demands such as the implementation of a law to protect medical personnel from violence.
Recently, resident doctors at major government hospitals in Delhi, including AIIMS and VMMC-Safdarjung, suspended elective services and initiated a strike to advocate for improved security measures and a central law for their protection. The decision to resume protests was prompted by accusations from various Resident Doctors’ Associations (RDAs) that FORDA had prematurely called off the strike without proper consultation, which they deemed a betrayal to the medical community.
In response to the discontent, FORDA has reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for the rights and safety of resident doctors, emphasising the need for concrete action rather than mere verbal assurances from government officials. The ongoing unrest underscores the critical need for comprehensive policies to safeguard healthcare workers amid rising incidents of violence in medical settings.
However, the leftist student leader announced that they will not participate in the march. “As per my knowledge, on that day the West Bengal NET examination is scheduled. I don’t know how a student organisation called a march on that day. They must be not students or not related to education. No leftist organisation will participate in that protest rally,” CPIM student leader Srijan Bhattacharya said.
Delhi remembers Nirbhaya in Kolkata case
For the past two weeks, Delhi has resonated with the powerful chant of “Nyay do, nyay do” (give us justice), a response to the brutal rape and murder of a doctor in Kolkata. This tragedy has rekindled the outrage reminiscent of the 2012 Nirbhaya protests, highlighting the persistent issues surrounding women's safety in India. Despite the years that have passed, the fundamental challenges remain largely unchanged. While the names and slogans may differ, the urgent demand for justice and protection continues to echo through the streets.
A significant demonstration occurred at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) on the eve of Independence Day, where hundreds gathered with lit candles to honour the victim and protest against violence toward women. This gathering not only served as a tribute but also underscored the pressing need for systemic reforms aimed at safeguarding healthcare workers.
On August 16, students and medical professionals from esteemed institutions such as AIIMS and Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital staged a sit-in outside the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. They called for Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda to address their grievances, reflecting the deep-seated frustration over the authorities’ inaction in the face of rising violence. Medical student Gargi Mishra voiced a sentiment shared by many: “It is very disheartening, not just for the doctor community but for every woman in our country that such an incident has happened. Our demands are straightforward: we are just asking for safety. It is high time now.”
The demand for justice has transcended the medical community. On August 20, more than 35 women’s rights organisations, including the All India Dalit Mahila Adhikar Manch and the All India Democratic Women’s Association, converged at Jantar Mantar. They protested against the alarming increase in gender-based violence across various states, including West Bengal, Bihar, Uttarakhand, and Uttar Pradesh. These organisations condemned the failure of state authorities to tackle these pressing issues, emphasising the urgent need for action and accountability in combating such crimes.
The collective outcry from diverse segments of society underscores a critical moment of reflection and action. As the protests continue, the call for justice and safety remains a rallying point for those demanding change in a society grappling with deep-rooted issues of gender violence.
Trinamool Reacts
Mamata seemed to be cognisant of this, with one of her first statements after the crime became known being that she was ready to hand over the probe to the CBI. In an interview to a private news channel, Mamata said: “Their (the protesting doctors’) anger is justified… I also spoke to the family of the victim… I have directed that the case be taken to a fast-track court. If needed, the accused will be hanged… Those who are protesting, if they don’t have faith in the state administration, they can approach any other law enforcement agency.”
On another incident where a team of ED officers were attacked, Mamata asserted, “I am not concerned about criticisms against me, but I will protest if anyone tries to malign the state.” Her comments came after an incident in which three ED officers were injured and several vehicles were vandalised by supporters of Trinamool Congress leader Shajahan Sheikh.
The assault occurred while the ED team was conducting a raid at Sheikh's residence in Sandeshkhali, investigating alleged irregularities in the state's ration distribution system. Banerjee's remarks reflect her commitment to defending the state's image amid rising tensions and allegations of violence, emphasising that such incidents do not represent the overall safety of West Bengal.
In response to the Governor's comments, Trinamool leaders dismissed his allegations as "cheap words," asserting that Bengal remains safe for women, citing Union Home Ministry reports. The controversy highlights a growing concern over mob violence and the state's handling of law and order. Additionally, local politicians have exchanged blame regarding the failure to pass protective legislation against lynching, suggesting that timely action could have mitigated such incidents.
Broad response to Mamata’s stance
Mamata Banerjee's recent statements have drawn criticism for not aligning with her government's actions in response to the tragic death of Dr. R. G. Kar. While she delayed meeting the victim's family, the principal of R G Kar Hospital, Sandip Ghosh, was promptly reassigned to lead Calcutta National Medical College and Hospital. This move not only appeared poorly timed but also highlighted significant oversights, particularly regarding the hospital's initial handling of the case, which included failing to inform the doctor’s parents and mischaracterising the incident as a “suicide.”
The situation escalated further when the Calcutta High Court reprimanded the hospital administration for its inaction in filing a formal complaint. Following the court's directives, Ghosh's new appointment was suspended, and he was placed on extended leave. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has since taken charge of the investigation, interviewing Ghosh extensively, which has raised serious concerns about the government's supposed support for him.
On the night of August 14, as protests erupted across Kolkata demanding justice for Dr. Kar, a violent mob attacked R G Kar Hospital, assaulting protesting doctors and nurses. Allegations arose that the police were complicit, described as “actively becoming inactive” during the chaos. Reports indicated that some members of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) were involved in the mob, a claim that Mamata attributed to political sabotage by the CPI(M) and BJP, although this assertion has garnered little belief.
Adding to the turmoil, the government’s abrupt decision to transfer 42 doctors, allegedly in retaliation for their participation in the protests, faced backlash and was swiftly retracted. Calls for Mamata's resignation have intensified from opposition parties, with BJP and CPI(M) leaders branding her a “failure” in her dual roles as Home and Health Minister. Even allies within the TMC's INDIA coalition have voiced their concerns. Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticised the administration on social media, suggesting that efforts to protect the accused instead of seeking justice for the victim raise alarming questions about the hospital and local governance.
Amidst this discord, TMC leaders have begun to express their unease. Sukhendu Sekhar Ray, a TMC Rajya Sabha MP, publicly joined the August 14 protests, emphasising the personal connection many feel regarding the tragedy, highlighting that he, like countless Bengali families, has loved ones who could face similar fates.
Supreme Court’s observation
In response to West Bengal's complaint regarding the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), the Supreme Court has firmly reiterated that law and order falls under the jurisdiction of individual states. The state earlier argued that the CBI was overstepping by claiming an "unilateral right" to investigate offences involving Central employees within its territory. Justice B.R. Gavai raised a pertinent question: if a Central employee commits a serious crime, should the CBI be the sole investigator?
Justice Sandeep Mehta noted that even military personnel accused of crimes within their camps are typically handed over to local police. Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, representing West Bengal, expressed concern that the CBI's actions could lead to broader implications, suggesting a strategy of using the CBI and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to bypass state authority.
The case also intersects with a separate matter involving Tamil Nadu and ED officer Ankit Tiwari, highlighting ongoing tensions regarding state versus central jurisdiction in criminal investigations. West Bengal's suit, filed under Article 131 of the Constitution, claims the CBI has been probing cases without the state's consent, which it officially withdrew in 2018.
Sibal argued that while investigations are necessary, they cannot be unilaterally dictated by the CBI, emphasising the need for state involvement. In contrast, Solicitor-General Tushar Mehta contended that the state's suit was not maintainable, as it involved matters that should not be directly addressed by the Supreme Court. He clarified that the CBI operates independently and cannot be treated as a defendant in this context.
Mehta also pointed out that West Bengal had pending petitions regarding similar issues, which he argued should preclude the current suit. Sibal countered that the Supreme Court must address jurisdictional questions separately from the merits of individual cases. Justice Mehta acknowledged that the federalism issues were indeed closely linked across both contexts.
West Bengal Governor
In a pointed critique of the Mamata Banerjee government, West Bengal Governor C.V. Ananda Bose condemned the rise of mob justice in the state, describing the situation as a dangerous "MB cocktail" that threatens law and order. His remarks followed a disturbing incident in which a woman was publicly flogged in Chopra for an alleged extramarital affair. Although the Governor intended to visit the victim, he postponed the trip after learning she wished to be left alone.
Bose expressed concern over the safety of women in Bengal, stating that from his discussions with victims, it became clear that the state is not a secure environment for them. The public flogging incident gained attention after a video surfaced online, leading to the arrest of a suspect, Tajemul, who is alleged to have connections with a local Trinamool MLA.
Opposition parties, including the BJP and CPM, have claimed political complicity in the incident, while the Trinamool Congress has promised accountability for those involved.
Bose characterised the prevailing conditions in Bengal as dismal, attributing the environment of violence to a toxic mix of money, political power, and governmental authority. He held the state’s Home Minister—who is also Chief Minister Banerjee—responsible for ensuring citizens' safety. Amid the outcry, the Governor has requested a report from the state government on the Chopra incident, and the National Human Rights Commission has also sought an official inquiry.
BJP's 12-Hour 'Bengal Bandh' Gets Mixed Response
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) organised a 12-hour bandh in West Bengal on Tuesday, drawing a mixed response across the state. In Kolkata, the streets were less congested than usual, but shops, schools, and colleges remained open. Train services faced temporary disruptions in Hooghly due to protests by BJP workers, while road traffic was notably affected in Nandigram and Alipurduar.
Violence erupted in Malda, where clashes occurred between Trinamool Congress (TMC) and BJP supporters over road blockades. The BJP's bandh was called in response to alleged police brutality against protesters during the 'Nabanna Abhijan' march the previous day.
Amid the unrest, Kolkata police detained three prominent BJP leaders, including Rajya Sabha MP Samik Bhattacharya in Salt Lake and former state BJP president Rahul Sinha along with Locket Chatterjee at Shyambazar. Chatterjee expressed defiance, stating, “The more they detain, the more people will join the protest. This is the anger of the people, and they are on the road. Police can detain people but not the idea.”
In a related development, the West Bengal Junior Doctors’ Forum announced a rally scheduled for Wednesday to demand justice for a colleague tragically raped and murdered at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital on August 9. The rally will commence at Shyambazar and conclude at Dharmatala.
On Wednesday, the BJP's bandh continued to disrupt services, particularly in Alipurduar, where bus operations were significantly affected. BJP leader Suvendhu Adhikari claimed that TMC affiliates fired upon the vehicle of fellow party leader Priyangu Pandey in Bhatpara, further escalating tensions. Adhikari condemned the attacks, asserting, “The Bandh is successful, and people have supported it wholeheartedly.”
As tensions rose, TMC alleged that BJP supporters attacked a bus carrying their activists en route to a rally in Kolkata. This prompted police to detain several BJP workers at Bata Chowk as part of the ongoing protests.
The Union Home Secretary is set to convene a meeting with health officials to discuss the safety of medical professionals following the unrest. Meanwhile, in rural areas of Bengal, the ongoing doctors’ agitation has led to a surge in patients seeking treatment from unqualified practitioners, as outpatient departments at government hospitals remain closed.
Despite the unrest, the West Bengal government reassured citizens that normal life would not be disrupted. Chief advisor to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Alapan Bandopadhyay, emphasised that transport services would remain operational and business establishments were encouraged to stay open amid the bandh.
As the situation develops, the BJP continues to rally support against the state government's actions, highlighting the ongoing tensions in West Bengal's political landscape.
What as society we must do.
We Indians should see this incident as a soul stirrer and may go to some of Thomas Jefferson writings where he once said, “If you want something you have never had, you must be willing to do something you have never done.” Jefferson was an American statesman, planter, diplomat, lawyer, architect, philosopher and Founding Father who served as the third president of the United States.
By Alok Sharma, Renu Sangwan
(The content of this article reflects the views of writers and contributors, not necessarily those of the publisher and editor. All disputes are subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of competent courts and forums in Delhi/New Delhi only)
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