KOLKATA: West Bengal saw widespread protests on Wednesday as thousands took to the streets, blocking train tracks and halting buses. The unrest followed the brutal rape and murder of a trainee doctor, which sparked outrage across the state. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), currently in opposition, called for a 12-hour strike after police used tear gas and water cannons on Tuesday to disperse a protest march.
Protesters, mostly BJP supporters, forced many shops to close and led to a significant police presence, with 5,000 officers deployed to manage the situation. Thousands of doctors, who have been striking since August 9, joined the demonstrations in Kolkata, demanding justice for the victim and improved safety measures in hospitals.
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who has faced criticism for her handling of the case, appealed to the doctors to return to work and promised swift action. She voiced strong support for victims of sexual violence. Meanwhile, university students and other protesters continued to call for her resignation.
Indian President Droupadi Murmu condemned the crime, comparing the public outrage to the reaction following the 2012 Delhi gang-rape. A police volunteer has been arrested, and federal authorities have now taken over the investigation.
