Protests Cast Shadow Over Durga Puja Amid Doctor's Tragic Death

The Durga Puja festival in West Bengal is overshadowed by protests demanding justice for the alleged rape and murder of a junior doctor at RG Kar Medical College. Demonstrations, including hunger strikes by junior doctors, highlighted issues of women’s safety alongside celebrations.

The Durga Puja festival in West Bengal was marred by protests demanding justice for a junior doctor allegedly raped and murdered at RG Kar Medical College.

While usually marked by jubilant celebrations, the mood during this year's events was notably subdued due to ongoing demonstrations.

Seven junior doctors in Kolkata, along with others in North Bengal, have been on a hunger strike exceeding 119 hours, pushing for enhanced security measures in state-run hospitals.

The protests drew wide support from citizens, fellow doctors, and the community, culminating in the 'Abhaya Parikrama Rally' to honor their fallen colleague and demand justice.

The tragic incident on August 9 has sparked outrage across West Bengal, overshadowing the Durga Puja festivities with calls for action and reflection on women's safety.

Participants at the rally voiced the struggle to reconcile the celebration of Goddess Durga, a symbol of strength, with the harsh realities faced by women in the state.

Observers noted the difficulty of celebrating a festival that honors the divine feminine amid pervasive violence against women.

Demonstrators, including citizens at Dorina Crossing, lent their voices to the call for justice and improved security measures.

A doctor's father expressed concern for the health of those on hunger strike but emphasized the greater cause at stake.

Senior doctors joined the call for justice, highlighting their commitment to their deceased colleague's memory over traditional celebrations.

Notably, slogans like 'We Want Justice' resonated through Durga Puja marquees, even as iconic celebrations continued drawing smaller crowds than usual.

Despite the protests, thousands gathered at historic sites like Belur Math, witnessing both the artistic and private cultural aspects of the festival.

(With inputs from agencies.)