India Protests Against Rape and Murder of Doctor
India has been rocked by widespread protests following the rape and murder of a 31-year-old doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The incident has triggered demands for tougher legislation for crimes against women and increased security for doctors on duty.
The victim, identified as Payel Tadvi, was found hanging in her hostel room on May 22, 2019. She had allegedly been subjected to harassment and casteist slurs by her seniors, who have been arrested and charged with abetment to suicide.
The case has sparked outrage across India, with thousands taking to the streets to demand justice for Payel and an end to violence against women. The protests have been led by women’s rights groups, students, and medical professionals, who have been joined by ordinary citizens from all walks of life.
Indian cricket team star Mohammed Siraj has also joined the chorus of voices speaking out against rape incidents across the country. In a strong message posted on his Instagram story, Siraj called out the excuses and blaming of women for such crimes.
“Rape is not a mistake, it’s a crime. Stop blaming women for what they wear, where they go, and who they talk to. It’s time to hold the perpetrators accountable and make India a safer place for all women,” Siraj wrote.
The incident has once again highlighted the issue of violence against women in India, which has been a longstanding problem in the country. According to the National Crime Records Bureau, there were over 33,000 cases of rape reported in India in 2018, with many more going unreported.
The Indian government has introduced several measures to address the issue, including the death penalty for rape of minors and the establishment of fast-track courts to expedite trials. However, critics say that more needs to be done to change the mindset of society and ensure that women are treated with respect and dignity.
The protests in the wake of Payel’s death are a reminder that the fight for women’s rights and safety is far from over in India. It is a call to action for all citizens to come together and demand change, so that no woman has to suffer the same fate as Payel Tadvi.
