Kolkata Erupts: Protest for Justice Turns Chaotic
On August 9, 2025, the heart of Kolkata witnessed a powerful outpouring of grief, anger, and determination. Thousands of protesters took to the streets to mark one year since the horrific rape and murder of a junior doctor at R G Kar Medical College Hospital.
What began as a peaceful march soon escalated into chaos. The “Nabanna Abhiyan” rally, called by the victim’s parents, was aimed at reaching the West Bengal state secretariat to demand justice. But police barricades and lathicharge halted the march midway.
The Call for Justice
The victim’s parents led the protest, refusing to let their daughter’s memory fade into silence. Opposition leader Suvendu Adhikari joined them, along with several BJP leaders. National flags waved as chants for justice echoed through Rani Rashmoni Road.
The family accused the police of trying to block them from even reaching the protest site. “People’s voices will not be throttled. We will get justice,” the victim’s father declared. His words resonated deeply with the crowd.
Clashes at Park Street
Tensions spiked at Park Street when protesters dismantled guard rails and tried to break through heavy barricades. The police responded with lathicharge, pushing back the swelling crowd. Videos from the scene show a tense standoff as officers and protesters faced off.
According to the West Bengal Police, bridges including the Vidyasagar Setu and Howrah Bridge were closed as a “preventive law and order measure.” Commuters were urged to use the Nivedita Setu instead.
Multiple Fronts of Resistance
In Howrah, the situation was no calmer. Protesters at Santragachi climbed over iron barricades, while others at Howrah Maidan attempted to push through. Each group hoped to converge on Nabanna, but police blockades at every major route thwarted the attempt.
Despite the setbacks, demonstrators maintained that the government was trying to silence dissent. “The Mamata government is scared,” said Adhikari during a sit-in after being stopped by police.
The R G Kar Case: A Year On
The R G Kar rape and murder case remains one of West Bengal’s most shocking crimes in recent years. According to India Today reports, the victim, a junior doctor, was found dead in her hospital quarters in August 2024. The case sparked statewide protests, demands for security reforms, and a national conversation about safety for women in workplaces.
While some arrests have been made, the victim’s family insists that justice is far from complete. They allege delays, political interference, and lack of transparency in the investigation.
Political and Public Reactions
Opposition leaders have accused the state government of mishandling the case. Civil society groups and women’s rights activists have also expressed outrage at what they call “institutional apathy.”
Social media hashtags like #JusticeForRGKarDoctor and #BengalProtests trended nationwide. Many users drew parallels with past movements like the 2012 Nirbhaya protests in Delhi, calling for stronger laws and faster trials.
The Larger Debate
Beyond the immediate tragedy, the protests have reignited a broader debate about safety in medical institutions. According to a 2023 report by the National Health Portal, incidents of harassment and violence against female healthcare workers have been rising across India.
Activists are calling for:
- Stronger on-site security in hospitals.
- Dedicated grievance redressal cells for female staff.
- Faster judicial processes in sexual assault cases.
Voices from the Ground
Many protesters at the rally were not directly connected to the victim but felt compelled to join. “If this can happen to a doctor in her own workplace, it can happen to any of us,” said a 23-year-old medical student from Howrah.
Street vendors along the protest route described the day as “tense” but supported the cause. “She was someone’s daughter. We want justice too,” said a tea stall owner near Park Street.
What Lies Ahead
As the day ended, barricades remained in place and traffic disruptions continued. The victim’s family vowed to keep fighting. Opposition leaders announced that more rallies would be organized until justice is delivered.
The state government has yet to release a new statement addressing the protests. The West Bengal Police maintain that their actions were necessary to prevent escalation.
Conclusion
The R G Kar protest was more than just a political rally. It was a cry for justice, a demand for safety, and a reminder that public outrage can still bring thousands to the streets. Whether this will push authorities to act remains to be seen.
