Thousands gathered in the streets of Kolkata early Thursday morning to denounce the rape and murder of a medic, which has sparked protests across India calling for improved safety measures for women.
The brutal discovery of the 31-year-old's body last week at a state-run hospital has led to widespread outrage, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi urging swift retribution for those who perpetrate 'monstrous deeds' against women.
Large groups of people marched through the streets of Kolkata in West Bengal to condemn the murder, with a candlelight vigil held at midnight, coinciding with the beginning of India's independence day celebrations on Thursday. The protesters in Kolkata, marching under the slogan 'reclaim the night', demanded a broader approach to addressing violence against women and displayed handwritten signs calling for action.
'We want justice,' one sign declared at the rally. 'Hang the rapist, save the women,' read another.
'The atrocities against women do not cease,' said Monalisa Guha, a participant in the midnight march, to Kolkata's The Telegraph newspaper. 'We face harassment almost daily,' added Sangeeta Halder, another marcher, to the daily. 'But not going out due to fear is not the answer.'
Doctors in government hospitals across several states suspended elective services 'indefinitely' on Monday, demanding swift justice and enhanced workplace security. Protests have since erupted in several other hospitals nationwide, including in the capital.
Modi, speaking in New Delhi on Thursday morning during independence day celebrations, did not directly address the Kolkata murder but expressed his 'pain' over violence against women. 'There is anger over atrocities committed against our mothers and sisters, there is anger in the nation about that,' he stated. 'Crimes against women must be investigated swiftly; monstrous behavior against women should be punished severely and swiftly,' he added. 'This is crucial for creating deterrence and confidence in society.'
