In a powerful statement against violence, citizens from diverse backgrounds gathered in Kolkata on June 29, 2025, to protest the gang rape of a law student at South Calcutta Law College. The incident, reported to have occurred on June 25, has sparked widespread outrage and mobilization, with demonstrations held at key locations, including the college itself and the Kasba Police Station where the FIR was filed.
The protests, which began with political activists and quickly drew in ordinary citizens, echoed the massive demonstrations following the tragic rape and murder of a trainee doctor at R.G. Kar Hospital last year. Notably, members of “Abhaya Mancha,” a group formed in response to that previous incident, joined alongside students and community members, emphasizing collective societal anger over repeated injustices faced by women.
Earlier that day, Archana Majumdar, a member of the National Commission for Women (NCW), visited the site of the alleged attack. She expressed frustration over the lack of information provided by local police regarding the survivor’s whereabouts and accessibility to the crime scene. "I spoke to the victim’s parents until midnight yesterday. They are anxious and are seeking support," Majumdar stated, highlighting her growing concerns as she attempted to connect with the family amid police restrictions.
Authorities have arrested four individuals in connection with the crime, including two current students and a former student linked to a student wing of the ruling party, as well as a security guard from the college. The survivor reported being assaulted by one man while others stood watch, bringing heightened scrutiny and anger towards the political affiliations of one of the suspects.
As the investigation progressed, the Kolkata Police bolstered the Special Investigation Team, expanding it to nine officers dedicated to examining the case comprehensively. The necessary medico-legal examination and testimony from the survivor have been completed under legal protocols, ensuring that her account is documented.
Suvendu Adhikari, the Leader of the Opposition, also participated in the protests, taking part in a Kanya Suraksha Yatra, or Women Safety March, at Golpark. He condemned the incident as a significant failure of the current government led by the Trinamool Congress, stating, “This incident is yet another scar on Bengal’s soul. How many more innocent girls and women must suffer due to their failure to protect our women?” His remarks highlight the political ramifications of this case, as the opposition calls for accountability and change.
Adhikari has also urged the parents of the deceased doctor to mobilize a state-wide march to Nabanna, the State Secretariat, on August 9, 2025, marking one year since the tragic incident at R.G. Kar Medical College. He pledged that the event would be a unifying effort free from political colors or flags.
As Kolkata grapples with this serious issue of gender-based violence, the community continues to demand justice and effective measures to safeguard women’s rights. The resonance of these protests speaks to an urgent call for change in a society still struggling with the pervasive threat of violence against women.
Keywords: Kolkata protests, gang rape, law student, Abhaya Mancha, National Commission for Women, Suvendu Adhikari, women’s safety, sexual assault, police investigation.
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/kolkata/people-hit-streets-in-kolkata-add-intensity-to-protests-over-law-college-gang-rape/article69752589.ece
Category : Kolkata
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Publish Date: 2025-06-29 23:03:00
