Protests Persist Investigation Continue Involving Calcutta Medical Student Murder

US & GLOBAL: In Calcutta, India, the tragic rape and murder of Moumita Debnath, a second-year postgraduate trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College in Kolkata, has sparked widespread outrage and protests across India.

By Ann M Erbynstein

On August 9, 2024, Moumita Debnath was found dead in a seminar hall on the college campus. An autopsy confirmed she had been raped and murdered

The report revealed severe injuries, including strangulation marks and signs of sexual assault. The extent of the injuries suggested possible gang rape, although this claim has been disputed by the police

A suspect, a civic volunteer with the Kolkata Police disaster management force, was arrested after his Bluetooth headset was found at the crime scene. The volunteer employee has confessed to the crime

The Calcutta High Court has transferred the case to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) due to dissatisfaction with the initial investigation

The incident has led to massive protests, with thousands of people, including medical professionals and women's rights activists, demanding justice

Demonstrations have included candlelight vigils, marches, and strikes by medical workers. Some protests have turned violent, with attacks on vehicles and ransacking of patient wards at the medical college

Women across the country have participated in "Reclaim The Night" marches, emphasizing the need for safer environments for women.

This case has reignited debates about women's safety and the effectiveness of law enforcement in India.