The tragic death of a female doctor in Kolkata, India, proved the fact that women are not saved on any premises, either in schools, offices, roads, or even hospitals now. The place where people’s lives are saved witnessed the screams and pleading of a young doctor.
This horrific murder took place on August 9, 2024, at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The oldest hospital in India, where around 3500 patients are treated daily. This incident questions the security lapses for women in workplaces, especially in medical institutions.
What Happened?
Moumita Debnath, a second-year postgraduate student, was found dead in a seminar hall within hospital premises. The reports say that Moumita went to the seminar for rest purposes. But next morning her half-naked body was found near the podium of the seminar hall. Initially, the hospital administration declared her death a suicide case. Later on, the autopsy report revealed the truth that she had been brutally raped and murdered. The bleeding from her eyes, mouth, and private parts and several injuries on other body parts are the evidence of this violent incident.
The police arrested the accused, a civic volunteer, immediately after discovering Moumita’s body. He had access to each ward and room of the hospital, despite not being officially related to the institution. CCTV footage captured his movements, and investigators found blood stains on his shoes, directly linking him to the crime. His neighbours and close revealed that the accused was a habitual offender and had a history of harassing women.
Public and Government Response
The brutal nature of the crime shook the whole nation. All people, especially medical students, protested in support of Moumita Dubneth. They demand justice for moumita and the safety of women in workplaces. The protest was not only held in Kolkata but swiftly spread throughout the country. After the incident, the Indian Medical Association held a 24-hour strike, suspending outpatient services nationwide.
WOMEN, RECLAIM THE NIGHT. These lines are the main motto of the protest, indicating the fact that the whole day, whether it’s day part or night part, should be safe for every woman.
The chief minister of West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee, also took strong action against this incident. She demanded the death penalty for the accused from the chief minister, and security guards of hospital premises were also fired immediately. The case was eventually handed to the Central Bureau of Investigation due to public pressure.
CONCLUSION
On August 9, when the whole nation was making plans to celebrate Independence Day, one woman was screaming and begging for her life. This incident made them question, Are we truly independent?
Can we genuinely celebrate Independence Day when such harrowing incidents highlight the fragility of our freedom and safety?
This case not only shocked the Indian nation but also internationally; people are grieving her death and showing their support through social media.
Lastly, Justice Should Be Prevailed And Accused Should Be Punished Severely.
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