KOLKATA: Thousands of people clashed in Kolkata on Wednesday as protests over the murder of a doctor turned into violent confrontations between political groups.
The body of the 31-year-old doctor was found on August 9 at a state-run hospital in Kolkata, igniting nationwide outrage over ongoing violence against women. This led to strikes by medical professionals and rallies supported by citizens across India, though many doctors have now returned to their duties.
However, protests in Kolkata have escalated into street battles between the ruling All India Trinamool Congress (AITMC) and the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The BJP, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, governs at the national level but is in opposition in West Bengal.
BJP supporters chanted, “We want justice,” demanding the resignation of AITMC leader Mamata Banerjee, who is the Chief Minister of West Bengal. In response, AITMC supporters shouted, “Go back! Go back!”
On Tuesday, police intervened with tear gas and water cannons, arresting at least 245 people. This led to a day-long shutdown of Kolkata on Wednesday, organized by BJP supporters, resulting in skirmishes with AITMC backers.
Protesters set up barricades blocking roads and railways, leading to disruptions in train services. Former BJP lawmaker Arjun Singh claimed that AITMC supporters attacked BJP members, injuring two individuals. He also accused AITMC activists of blocking roads to prevent BJP marches.
Railways official Kousik Mitra reported that train services were interrupted due to protesters occupying railway tracks. Police later managed to restore a fragile peace between the opposing groups.
Doctors are planning a separate rally later on Wednesday to honor their murdered colleague. Although one person has been arrested in connection with the murder, Banerjee’s government has faced criticism over its handling of the investigation.
India’s Supreme Court has called for a national task force to enhance security for healthcare workers, expressing shock over the brutal killing. The gruesome incident has drawn comparisons to the 2012 gang rape and murder case in Delhi, which also became a significant political issue.
The attack has further fueled anger in a country where sexual violence is a persistent problem, with nearly 90 rapes reported daily in a nation of 1.4 billion people.
Read More:
Bengal Bandh Updates: Travel Disrupts, Airlines Issue Warnings, Train Services Affected
How BJP's 12-Hour Bandh Disrupts Daily Life in West Bengal
BJP Announces 12-Hour Bangal Bandh Tomorrow to Protest Police Actions in Kolkata
