In the wake of the sexual assault and murder of a trainee doctor in Kolkata, the Joint Platform of Doctors has called for a symbolic rakhi festival on Monday (August 19). Instead of traditional rakhi, doctors will be wearing black ribbons and tying black rakhis as a mark of their protest against the incident, along with a march to the Kolkata Police headquarters to show support for two doctors who have been summoned. The President has also urged citizens to take a pledge to ensure the safety and respect of women on the occasion of Rakshabandhan.
Black Rakhi: A Protest Against Sexual Violence against Women in Healthcare
Amidst the shock and outrage over the recent sexual assault and murder of a trainee doctor in Kolkata, the Joint Platform of Doctors has announced a symbolic "Black Rakhi" festival to protest the horrific incident.
Background
On June 2, 2022, a 25-year-old intern doctor at NRS Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata was brutally assaulted and murdered while returning home from work late at night. The incident sparked widespread anger and protests, highlighting the alarming issue of violence against women in healthcare settings.
Black Rakhi Festival
To mark their protest, doctors across India will participate in the "Black Rakhi" festival on Monday, August 19, 2022. Instead of the traditional red and gold rakhis, they will wear black ribbons and tie black rakhis as a symbol of their mourning and condemnation of the violence. A march to the Kolkata Police headquarters will also be held to demand justice for the victim and support for two doctors who have been summoned in connection with the case.
President's Appeal
President Droupadi Murmu has expressed her condolences to the victim's family and urged citizens to take a pledge to ensure the safety and respect of women on the occasion of Rakshabandhan. She emphasized the need to create a society where women feel secure and protected.
FAQs
1. Why are doctors wearing black rakhis? Doctors are wearing black rakhis as a symbol of protest against the sexual assault and murder of a trainee doctor in Kolkata and to demand justice for the victim.
2. What is the significance of Rakshabandhan in this context? Rakshabandhan is a festival that celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. Doctors are using the festival to highlight the need to protect women and ensure their safety, particularly in healthcare settings.
3. What are the demands of the Joint Platform of Doctors? The Joint Platform of Doctors is demanding justice for the victim, proper investigation of the incident, and the implementation of measures to prevent violence against women in healthcare settings.
4. What steps are being taken to address violence against women in healthcare? The government has announced plans to set up dedicated committees to monitor and prevent violence against women in healthcare institutions. Medical institutions are also being encouraged to enhance security measures and create safe working environments for women.
5. What can citizens do to support the cause? Citizens can participate in protests, sign petitions, and raise awareness about the issue of violence against women in healthcare. They can also pledge to protect and respect women and create a safer society for them.
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