Unified Voices: Women's March in West Bengal Demands Justice

Thousands of women across West Bengal participated in the 'Reclaim the Night' campaign, demanding justice for a doctor allegedly raped and murdered at a state-run hospital in Kolkata. The movement transcended political lines, involving diverse participants and marking a significant social mobilization for women's safety.

In a powerful display of unity, thousands of women across West Bengal took to the streets at midnight as part of the second edition of the 'Reclaim the Night' campaign. The movement demands justice for a doctor allegedly raped and murdered at a state-run hospital in Kolkata last month.

The campaign, predominantly driven by social media, saw women from various walks of life—actors, students, professionals, and homemakers—marching together with posters and candles. The rally started at 11:30 pm, marking the second such gathering since August 14 and echoed demands for justice beyond partisan lines, with national flags instead of political party symbols.

Despite a few incidents of misbehavior and arrests, the movement retained its focus, with notable moments including pavement dwellers joining in at Sealdah Station. The sound of conch shells added a symbolic touch of resistance. Women across various districts, including Kolkata, Berhampore, Siliguri, and Jalpaiguri, participated, signaling a statewide call for justice and safety.

(With inputs from agencies.)