Raped Indian doctor's colleague speaks of trauma and painRaped Indian doctor's colleague speaks of trauma and pain
In Kolkata, tens of thousands of people took to the streets on Wednesday night in a powerful “Reclaim the Night” march to protest the rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor from RG Kar Medical College. The incident, which occurred last Friday, has sparked widespread outrage and grief across India, leading to mass demonstrations demanding justice for the victim and a broader discussion on women’s safety.
Devalina Bose, a 27-year-old intern at the same hospital where the victim worked, spoke to the BBC about her emotional response to the tragedy. Devalina described being deeply traumatized by the crime and the sense of vulnerability it has instilled in her. She recounted a recent experience where, despite being in a hospital—a place she once considered safe—she had felt uneasy due to the lack of a lock on a room door. This sense of insecurity, once easily dismissed, has now become a persistent source of anxiety for her during her shifts.
Devalina’s participation in the protest was driven by a profound sense of injustice and a personal connection to the victim. Her parents were concerned for her safety, but she felt strongly about exercising her right to be out and about, advocating for a society where women are free to move about safely at any time of day or night. Her participation in the march was not just a show of solidarity with her colleagues but also a declaration of her right to public spaces.
The march, which saw participation from people of all ages and backgrounds, became a poignant symbol of unity and collective demand for change. Women of all generations, from grandmothers to daughters, came together to hold placards, light candles, and chant slogans for justice. Devalina noted the significance of witnessing such a diverse and passionate turnout, which included her own female professors and community members, reflecting a broader societal call for reform.
The protest also resonated with Devalina on a personal level, as she felt connected to similar marches happening across the state and beyond. The widespread participation and shared resolve among women and allies reinforced a sense of solidarity and collective action. The incident and the ensuing protests have ignited a nationwide dialogue about victim-blaming and the fundamental right to safety.
Devalina criticized the common societal tendency to blame victims, questioning why women are held accountable for crimes committed against them. She emphasized that the focus should shift from questioning the victim’s actions to addressing the root causes of sexual violence. Her words call for a deeper examination of societal attitudes and a commitment to creating a safer environment for all women.
0 Comments