The Durga Puja celebrations in West Bengal have taken a somber turn this year as pandals across the state demand justice for the 31-year-old trainee doctor who was raped and murdered at RG Kar Hospital. From sculptures and models to special VIP passes, pandals are using their platforms to raise awareness and protest against the prevalent issue of violence against women in the state. Even the state's political parties have taken notice, with BJP's Suvendu Adhikari inaugurating a pandal dedicated to the victim.
Durga Puja in West Bengal: A Somber Celebration Amidst Calls for Justice
The annual Durga Puja festival in West Bengal, India, has taken a somber turn this year as pandals (temporary shrines) across the state demand justice for a 31-year-old trainee doctor who was raped and murdered at RG Kar Hospital in Kolkata.
Background
On October 2, 2022, the trainee doctor was brutally attacked in the hospital's elevator by four men. She was then taken to the intensive care unit, where she succumbed to her injuries. The incident sparked widespread outrage and protests across the country, with many calling for swift and severe punishment for the perpetrators.
Pandals Demand Justice
In response to the tragedy, Durga Puja organizers in West Bengal have incorporated elements into their pandals to raise awareness and protest against violence against women. Many pandals feature sculptures and models depicting the victim and scenes of violence, while others have dedicated VIP passes to women as a symbolic gesture of support.
Political Response
Political parties in the state have also taken notice of the issue. BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari inaugurated a pandal dedicated to the victim, while the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) has pledged to support the family of the deceased doctor.
Top 5 FAQs
1. Who was the victim of the rape and murder? She was a 31-year-old trainee doctor at RG Kar Hospital in Kolkata.
2. When and where did the incident occur? It occurred on October 2, 2022, in the elevator of RG Kar Hospital.
3. What is the status of the investigation? Four suspects have been arrested in connection with the case, and the investigation is ongoing.
4. How are Durga Puja pandals responding to the incident? Many pandals are incorporating elements into their displays to demand justice for the victim and raise awareness about violence against women.
5. What are the demands of the protesters? The protesters are demanding swift and severe punishment for the perpetrators, as well as measures to prevent such incidents from happening in the future.
Conclusion
The somber tone of this year's Durga Puja celebrations in West Bengal reflects the deep anguish and anger felt by the state's residents over the heinous crime committed against the trainee doctor. The pandals' use of their platforms to demand justice sends a strong message that society will not tolerate violence against women.
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